Dylan Harper’s selection as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft by the San Antonio Spurs marks a significant moment for the rising star.
The Rutgers standout’s draft status has already generated substantial media attention, including a recent podcast appearance alongside Kiyan Anthony, son of NBA legend Carmelo Anthony.
During their conversation on “7PM in Brooklyn,” the two young basketball talents revealed the origin story of their enduring friendship, offering fans a glimpse into their personal connection that began years before their professional journeys diverged.
Kiyan Anthony and Dylan Harper Share How They First Met and Became Friends
Currently, both young stars are preparing to embark on new chapters in their careers. The Long Island Lutheran High School graduate is set to begin his college journey at Syracuse University, while Harper will soon suit up in a Spurs jersey for his rookie NBA season.
Before their new journeys begin, Carmelo invited them to his “7PM in Brooklyn with Carmelo Anthony” podcast. The NBA legend’s very first question to the former Rutgers guard focused on their initial connection.
No. 2 pick Dylan Harper AND Kiyan Anthony had a lot to discuss as the newest members of the Spurs & Syracuse
Lock in early for a fresh new episode dropping later today https://t.co/U0flr4CDBZ pic.twitter.com/nnVazkVEzv
— 7PM in Brooklyn (@7PMinBrooklyn) June 26, 2025
“I think six, it might have been a little earlier. I mean, sixth or seventh grade is probably my latest memory, I think. Played a little at the Riverbank. I think that was the first time me and him connected, and ever since then we’ve just been cool,” Harper said, recalling their first meeting at Riverbank State Park in New York City.
True to form, Anthony admitted he couldn’t pinpoint the exact moment. “Nah, yeah, I don’t remember,” he said with a laugh. However, he quickly added, “But ever since then we’ve been cool, we’ve been keeping in contact. Definitely had that relationship.”
Following Different Paths to Basketball Success
Anthony is clearly following in his father’s footsteps by heading to Syracuse University to play college basketball after completing his high school career. The university holds special significance as the same institution where Carmelo starred and led the Orange to a national championship in 2003.
Meanwhile, Harper has already transitioned to professional basketball after his first-round selection in the 2025 NBA Draft. His impressive freshman campaign at Rutgers University, where he averaged 19.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game, positioned him perfectly to join San Antonio’s promising young core alongside Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle.
The Spurs demonstrated their commitment to selecting Harper by maintaining control of the No. 2 overall pick despite numerous trade opportunities.
Reports indicated they were close to moving the pick in a potential Kevin Durant trade, yet ultimately decided to stay the course. The franchise chose to draft Harper rather than pursue the two-time NBA champion, signaling their confidence in building around young talent.
If Harper can replicate anything close to his standout freshman performance at Rutgers during his rookie season, the Spurs’ front office will have every reason to celebrate their patience and strategic planning.
The combination of Harper’s playmaking abilities with Wembanyama’s unique skill set and Castle’s emerging talent creates an intriguing foundation for the franchise’s future.
