Nov 23, 2022; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors guard Ron Harper Jr. (8) drives to the net against \b25\during the second half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Ron Harper Jr. is having a very solid rookie campaign for the Toronto Raptors G League team, the Raptors 905. While he’s played in four NBA games and averaging 2.5 points in limited action, he’s flourished in the G League. Harper Jr. has developed into a complete player.
That was never more evident than on Tuesday night when the former Rutgers star produced the first triple double of his career. Harper Jr. finished with 30 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds in the last home game of the season. It came in a critical spot as his team is battling for a spot in the playoffs. The Raptors 905 defeated the College Park Skyhawks 111-104. They’re a game and a half behind the last playoff spot with two games left in the regular season.
In 28 games this season, Harper Jr. is averaging 16.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.3 blocks and 1.0 steal in 32.6 minutes per contest. He is shooting 50.0% from the floor, 36.4% from three-point range and 77.0% from the foul line.
Harper Jr. has evolved into a creator off the dribble and a distributor as well. Here are three highlights from his career performance on Tuesday night that showcase both aspects of his evolving game.
It’s great to see Harper Jr. thriving in his first professional season. After just missing out in being selected in the NBA Draft, he quickly signed a two-way deal with the Toronto Raptors. His NBA highlight was scoring 6 points with two threes against the Brooklyn Nets on November 23. However, he’s become a key player for their G League affiliate. His focus on becoming a primary ball handler, as well as his development as a distributor and perimeter shooter is key to having a successful pro career.
Of course, it’s no surprise to Rutgers fans that Harper Jr. is having successful season or that he’s become a leader for the Raptors 905. You can watch Harper Jr.’s press conference in which he discusses his time at Rutgers as well as his first professional season here. He’s featured in the first five plus minutes of this video. His maturity and class are on full display.
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