Harper and Wembanyama: Explosive debut with alley-oop in the Spurs

Dylan Harper and the Connection with Wembanyama: A Promising Debut in the Spurs

The rookie Dylan Harper showed that learning to throw a pass to Victor Wembanyama is a unique challenge. In his preseason debut with the San Antonio Spurs, Harper connected with Wembanyama on a spectacular alley-oop, evidencing the connection on the court. In the game against the Utah Jazz, Harper showed a near-perfect performance in the first half. He finished with a plus-minus of 22 in 12 and a half minutes, scoring 9 points on 4 of 5 shooting and two assists. In the third quarter he added another assist before leaving the game at 6:23 minutes due to a minute restriction. The Spurs coach, Mitch Johnson, highlighted the importance of this experience for Harper, who played 18 minutes and finished with a plus-minus of 20. “It’s just another step for him and his young career, as he will continue to grow,” commented Johnson.

Obviously, he made some plays, which, hopefully, he will feel good about. But just being able to do it in front of the fans and under the bright lights, whether it’s the plays that people will talk about when he scored, made a shot, or made a good pass. Just being able to get through the team’s defense and run the court, it’s an invaluable experience.

Mitch Johnson, Spurs Coach

Harper admitted to feeling nervous in his debut, but quickly overcame them. In his first two assists, he connected alley-oops with Wembanyama and Luke Kornet. In addition, he demonstrated defensive activity, guarding players all over the court for most of his minutes.

It’s good to be on the court with him. He seems ready, already very comfortable throwing these kinds of passes. So I’m very confident and I’m very happy to be able to spend time on the court with him.

Victor Wembanyama

Harper scored his first basket at 6:12 of the first quarter, with a layup after an assist from Harrison Barnes. Then, he beat his former Rutgers teammate and draft number 5, Ace Bailey, for his next basket. Harper, who missed the first two preseason games as a precaution after surgery in September, revealed that he must adjust his passes for Wembanyama. “I should have thrown higher, much higher,” Harper said, “It’s weird. Nobody has played with someone so tall.”