The San Antonio Spurs have no shortage of off-court leaders. Manu Ginobili, David Robinson, Tim Duncan, and Gregg Popovich are all staples at the Victory Capital Performance Center, and current players can seemingly always go to them for a lesson or mentorship.
However, with the exception of Popovich, that legendary foursome tends to keep their noses out of day-to-day operations and lets the front office make moves as they see fit.
In short, Brian Wright and his crew have a long leash. So far, it’s worked out for the Spurs.
As the team grapples with the future, especially the backcourt pairing of De’Aaron Fox and Dylan Harper, massive decisions will be needed. There have been reports that Harper wants to be a starter, and the team will have to either meet that demand or have uncomfortable conversations.
However, one NBA legend is stepping up, quickly becoming a voice of reason.
Ron Harper Downplays Dylan’s ‘Demand’
No one blames Dylan Harper for wanting to be a starter. In the Finals, he outplayed Fox to such a degree that trade rumors have heated up. Plus, as a second overall pick, he entered the league with the expectation that he would eventually be a franchise centerpiece, not a backup.
Recent reports pointed to his patience running out. However, a source closer to Harper than pretty much anyone else suggested that he could be patient.
Ron, Dylan’s father, often spends late nights on social media, posting more than most 62-year-olds. His recent topic of choice? Just how happy his son is with his current role.
Now, that’s not to say that Ron doesn’t think his son shouldn’t be a starter, he just doesn’t think such a young player is in such a position to make a “demand.” Instead, he would rather his son steal the role from Fox.
Most fans would probably say that Harper has already earned the nod.
The last time a family member got this involved in a player’s career, Uncle Dennis helped drive Kawhi Leonard from San Antonio.
Fortunately for the Spurs, Harper Sr. seems to be patient and understands the team’s vision. Considering that he took back seats later in his career to Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, we’re hoping that the team-first mindset runs in the family. Ron started his career on horrible teams before honing in on his defense and playing a proper role.
Having a mentor like Ron Harper around the young team, telling them that they can’t make demands, should be good for the team’s development. Hopefully it’ll remain positive and not become a distraction.
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