Fil-Am Dylan Harper reacts to 2026 NBA Rising Stars selection
San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper controls the ball during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Houston Rockets in Houston, Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)
Filipino American San Antonio Spurs rookie Dylan Harper is gearing up for a big moment on the national stage after being selected for the 2026 NBA Rising Stars Challenge.
Harper, along with teammates Stephon Castle and David Jones Garcia, will represent the team in the showcase, which features the league’s top rookies and second-year players in a mini-tournament format.
San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper (2) drives to the basket over New Orleans Pelicans center Derik Queen (22) during the second half of an NBA basketball game in San Antonio, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
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Despite the honor, Harper admitted he wasn’t shocked by the announcement. “In my head, I thought every rookie made it,” he confessed. For Harper, the selection is a milestone but one that feels like a natural step in his journey.
The Rising Stars Challenge will feature 10 rookies and 10 sophomores, with semifinals played to 40 points and a championship game to 25 points.
Scheduled for Feb. 13 in Inglewood, California, the event offers young players a chance to showcase their skills in front of fans, media and NBA luminaries.
Harper emphasized that the recognition is as much about the Spurs’ team effort as it is about individual achievement. “It’s a testament to me, but it’s also a testament to us winning,” he said. “I think about just going out there and putting my best foot forward.”
Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson praised Harper and his young backcourt mates, highlighting their chemistry and commitment to playing off each other’s strengths.
“Those guys have had the willingness and enthusiasm to play with each other,” Johnson mentioned. “I’ve felt zero negative. To learn how to play with each other when there’s dynamic talent, you have to figure out how to play to strengths. I think they’ve done that.”
