Cooper Flagg was selected as the first overall pick of the 2025 NBA Draft, but it’s the N0.2 pick at the Barclays Center in New York who’s arguably generating more buzz. The San Antonio Spurs selected Dylan Harper, an incredible talent in his own right. However, he’s making the headlines more for his contract.
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In a matter of minutes, Dylan, who played college basketball for the Rutgers Scarlet Knights, secured a four-year deal worth $56.1 million (with team options), including $25.4 million guaranteed in his first two seasons. When Commissioner Adam Silver announced it, Dylan crossed a remarkable milestone even before his career had officially begun.
Dylan instantly earned more than his father, Ron Harper, made over a 15-year NBA career. A five-time champion with the Chicago Bulls and the Los Angeles Lakers, Ron made roughly $35 million in total salary, which is $21 million less than Dylan’s rookie deal.
Even after adjusting Ron’s earnings for inflation — around $63 million in today’s value — the gap remains staggering. Ron’s highest-paying season came in 1998, when he earned $5.28 million with the Chicago Bulls.
In his entire 15-year career, the former guard never crossed the $5 million mark before or after that year.
Ron was a key contributor on every team he played for — including the Clippers, Cavaliers, Bulls, and Lakers. He wrapped up his career averaging 13.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game. Still, despite that resume, the financial ceiling in his era was much lower.
Dylan Harper’s rookie contract: $56M
Father Ron Harper’s career earnings: $35M
— Darren Rovell (@darrenrovell) June 26, 2025
Ron’s not the only legend whose earnings now seem modest: Dennis Rodman, another five-time champ, made just around $27 million in total career salary.
Even Charles Barkley, a former MVP and 11-time All-Star, never crossed $50 million in total earnings as a player. His NBA career earnings stand at a little over $40 million.
This all comes down to the NBA’s money boom in recent years. The league’s new $76 billion media rights deal has doubled revenue expectations. With the rising salary cap, even rookies are landing deals that used to be reserved for superstars.
The Harper family now represents a stunning example of how far the NBA has come financially. One generation helped build the league’s legacy, and the next is cashing in on its evolution.
