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She also raised him and his brother, Boston Celtics player Ron Harper Jr., alongside five-time NBA champion Ron Harper Sr.
"She means the world to me," Dylan Harper said prior to the 2025 draft.
He later reiterated that sentiment after being drafted by the Spurs, noting her presence through every stage of his development.
In a SiriusXM NBA Radio interview, Maria Harper praised the San Antonio organization's culture and the relationships her son built during his rookie year.
"They really do love each other," she said. "Those guys in the locker room really embraced him."
She also compared her two sons' career paths, describing Ron Harper Jr. as a "Crock-Pot" who needed time to develop, while Dylan is "a little bit of a microwave."
She credited the Celtics for nurturing Ron's growth after he was waived by the Detroit Pistons.
Rutgers University head coach Steve Pikiell, who coached Ron Harper Jr. in college, praised the forward's scoring ability and defensive versatility.
"He can play the point guard, 2, 3, 4, and he's strong enough to defend all of them," Pikiell said.
He expressed confidence that the Celtics would offer Ron a long-term extension.
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As the NBA Finals continue, Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle lead the Spurs alongside Harper at Madison Square Garden.
