Heading into the 2026-27 NBA season, Dylan Harper, now in his second year as a professional and still a few months away from turning 21, draws comparisons to a young Tom Brady back in 2002. This isn’t to say Harper will have a career like Brady’s legendary one, but like Brady during his early playoffs run, Harper has shown signs of becoming something exceptional. In 2002, Brady had only one impressive playoff showing, leading the Patriots to an unlikely Super Bowl victory — a start that hinted at greatness ahead. Similarly, Harper transitioned from a promising rookie season into a playoff breakout that surprised many with its rapid progression.
Though Harper’s Spurs didn’t win the championship like Brady’s Patriots did that year, they came very close—beating the defending champion Thunder in a tough seven-game conference final and leading the Knicks for much of the NBA Finals. Unlike Brady, who was managing the game, Harper was outright dominating at critical moments. His playoff performances were electric, including a fierce duel with Scoot Henderson in the first round, a dominant 51 points and 22 rebounds stretch across the Timberwolves series, and a stellar first playoff start in the conference finals where he put up 24 points, 11 boards, seven steals, and six assists in 47 minutes.
In the final two games before the Finals, Harper’s impressive stats—30 points, 13 rebounds, and seven assists on 66% three-point shooting—helped push San Antonio through, where he maintained a rookie Finals scoring average of 18 points per game, second all-time among rookies. His standout moments included a 56-point contribution in two games against the Knicks, often outplaying established stars like Jalen Brunson and Victor Wembanyama.
Harper’s playoff showing was remarkable not only for his scoring but for his physical toughness and advanced skills. He finishes strongly despite heavy contact, displays refined mid-range shooting, and is developing a reliable three-point shot. His defense is mature beyond his years, showcasing intelligence, length, and physicality that usually come with veteran players. The Spurs did not expect Harper to progress this quickly. They planned for De’Aaron Fox to start while Harper came off the bench until he was ready to take over — a timeline that has clearly accelerated, as Harper demands a starting role this season.
In a candid moment with teammate Stephon Castle, Harper boldly declared his ambition to win Sixth Man of the Year, only to quickly dismiss the idea of coming off the bench again. Despite trying to sound diplomatic, Harper made it clear that he has no intention of being a backup this year.
This leaves the Spurs with a decision: will Fox, a recent All-Star and high-paid player, start alongside Harper and Castle in a three-guard lineup, or will Fox take on the sixth-man role? Fox remains unbothered by the situation, focusing on what he can control—helping the team win. The Spurs have the flexibility to accommodate this luxury, but if roles clash, expect a possible trade involving Fox in the near future.
Ultimately, Dylan Harper has earned the starting point guard spot for San Antonio. Just like Tom Brady seized his opportunity early on, Harper’s undeniable talent and impact mean there’s no turning back.
Fan Take: Dylan Harper’s rapid rise is a thrilling development for basketball fans, signaling a new star emerging with rare poise and impact at such a young age. His evolution could shift team dynamics around the league and inspire a fresh wave of pace-and-power play that reshapes the sport’s future.
Source: www.cbssports.com
