LOS ANGELES — Ron Harper Jr. Patted his chest three times in a slow rhythm, his mind elsewhere, before answering a reporter’s question.
“Me,” he replied confidently, insisting he still knows his little brother’s number.
Ron Jr. And Dylan Harper, both representing their respective teams at NBA All‑Star Weekend on the West Coast, grew up playing countless games on the family driveway. Dylan initially struggled to beat his older brother, though it was not unheard of.
The last time the brothers faced each other, the game ended early when Ron Jr. Was fouling excessively, yet Dylan still presented his brother with a flower.
“You think I’ve never won?” Ron Jr. Pressed, taking offense at the implication, a sensible response for someone who has lived 19 years.
Dylan, the San Antonio Spurs rookie, said at the NBA Draft, “Our bond is unbreakable… Here’s a dream come true.” His former Rutgers teammate Ace Bailey echoed the sentiment, adding, “We’ve been together a long time… He’s my best friend.”
On Friday evening, the brothers will finally settle the score on hardwood. Dylan will suit up for Team Melo in the NBA Rising Stars Challenge, while Ron Jr. Will represent Team Austin alongside other G League talent.
Dylan’s familiar reinforcements include Stephon Castle and Ace Bailey, both also on Team Melo.
In addition to the Rising Stars game, Dylan, Ron Jr., and their father will compete together in the NBA’s Shooting Stars event on Saturday evening.
This season, Dylan is averaging 10.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.7 assists on 47 percent shooting over 43 appearances, forming part of a “three‑headed hydra” in the Spurs’ backcourt.
“Being a point guard, especially,” Utah Jazz guard Ace Bailey observed, “he’s leading the offense, finding his teammates. It’s crazy. Special, at this level.”
Ron Jr., watching from the wings, said, “I was kind of hoping he went to San Antonio. Just being his brother, wanting the best for him, I know an organization like that’s always going to take care of him.”
His older brother’s pride was evident, describing the upcoming weekend as “a big weekend” with the spotlight shining on Dylan.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the Harper brothers?
Ron Harper Jr. And Dylan Harper are siblings who both earned spots at NBA All‑Star Weekend, representing different teams: Ron Jr. With Team Austin (G League talent) and Dylan with Team Melo (Spurs rookie).
What is the NBA Rising Stars Challenge?
The Rising Stars Challenge is an All‑Star Weekend event where young players, such as Dylan Harper (Team Melo) and Ron Jr. (Team Austin), compete on the hardwood.
What is the NBA Shooting Stars event?
The Shooting Stars event is a contest featuring teams of current players, former players, and a fan; Dylan Harper, Ron Jr., and their father will compete together in this event.
How do you think the Harper brothers’ on‑court rivalry will influence their future performances?
