As Dylan Harper eagerly anticipates the announcement of his name during the 2025 NBA Draft, the spotlight extends beyond him to his remarkable family dynamics. The 19-year-old Rutgers standout is not the only one making headlines; his 13-year-old sister, Mia Harper, is also emerging as a star in her own right, particularly in the world of dance.
Dylan’s journey to NBA greatness is deeply rooted in a family lineage steeped in athletic accomplishments. His father, Ron Harper, had an illustrious 15-year NBA career, claiming five championships alongside basketball legends such as Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen with the Chicago Bulls. Adding to the family legacy is Dylan’s older brother, Ron Harper Jr., who is currently competing in the NBA G League. On the women’s side, their mother, Maria Pizarro Harper, played college basketball at the University of New Orleans and later became a prep school coach.
Mia, the youngest of the Harper siblings, is showcasing her own talents as a competitive dancer at Studio L. Dance in Waldwick, New Jersey. Her confidence resonates in interviews; when asked in 2024 who the best athlete in the family is, she boldly asserted, “It’s me.” Despite Dylan teasingly contesting her claim to the title, he acknowledges her incredible skills, while their mother, Maria, wholeheartedly supports Mia as the most talented athlete at her age.
While Mia has chosen to focus on dance for the time being, Dylan believes that if she were to return to basketball, she would dominate. He imagines her as a formidable 6-foot-2 point guard in high school.
As Dylan prepares for a significant milestone tonight, potentially being a first-round pick in the NBA Draft, the Harper family continues to support one another in their respective pursuits. The legacy spans generations, from Ron Harper’s championship experience to Maria’s coaching expertise and Ron Jr.’s determination in the G League. Mia is at the heart of this supportive family dynamic, and regardless of her path—be it on the dance stage or the basketball court—the Harper name will undoubtedly continue to shine brightly for years to come.