Dylan Harper has emerged as one of the top rookies this season with the San Antonio Spurs, and the guard credited his teammates for his early on-court success.
Harper is averaging 10.9 points, 3.7 assists and 3.4 rebounds while shooting 46.7% from the field in 43 appearances with the Spurs. He ranks fifth among all rookies in assists and is one of 10 first-year players with at least five 20-point performances.
The second overall pick has emerged as a key bench player for coach Mitch Johnson, with his dynamic scoring and defensive potential. He has formed a strong rotation with the likes of De'Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle and believes the group is dangerous.
"Our chemistry is great," Harper said Friday before the Rising Stars Game. "I think my confidence is at an all-time high just because I got them, plus everyone else empowering me when I get in the game to just do what I do. It has been great. Obviously, we all play the same position, but I think we all do different things that make it so special. When you're on the floor with four ballhandlers, it is pretty hard to beat."
Harper entered the season with high expectations as a high lottery pick out of Rutgers. He has seemingly fit in well with the group on and off the court and has benefited from a strong group of veterans around him, like Fox, Harrison Barnes, Luke Kornet and Devin Vassell.
The 19-year-old has commended his teammates throughout the season for providing feedback and offering advice as he navigates an 82-game schedule for the first time. He is grateful to land with an organization that has made the transition from the college ranks seamless.
Harper was among the 28 players selected to the Rising Stars Game, along with Castle and Carter Bryant. He will also participate in the Shooting Stars event on Saturday with his father and brother, and is excited to take in the festivities with those closest to him.
"I mean, having everyone here definitely helps, familiar faces around," Harper said. "First All-Star Weekend that I'm participating in, I wouldn't want to have it any other way. Being here, in this spotlight, is a great feeling."
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Spurs news: Rookie Dylan Harper credits teammates for high confidence