San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper 'all business' on court in Western Conference finals
Andscape • • sports
Key Points:
- Rookie Dylan Harper unexpectedly started Game 1 of the NBA Western Conference finals for the San Antonio Spurs after De’Aaron Fox was scratched due to an ankle sprain, making Harper the Spurs’ youngest playoff starter since Tony Parker in 2002.
- Harper delivered a standout performance with 24 points, 11 rebounds, six assists, and a franchise playoff record seven steals, becoming the youngest player in NBA history with a 20-plus point, 10-rebound game in a conference finals.
- The Spurs' starting lineup in Game 1 was the youngest in NBA conference finals history, featuring Harper alongside Stephon Castle, Julian Champagnie, Victor Wembanyama, and Devin Vassell.
- Spurs coach Mitch Johnson praised Harper’s defensive and overall play, highlighting his growth and maturity despite being a rookie who mostly came off the bench during the regular season.
- Harper credits Fox for mentorship and guidance, and while Fox is expected to return in Game 2, Harper’s Game 1 success has boosted his confidence and the Spurs’ depth moving forward.