PRO KNIGHTS

Ron Harper Jr. registers first double-digit scoring game of his NBA career

Published

1 year ago

April 10, 2023

Apr 9, 2023; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors forward Ron Harper Jr. (8) drives to the basket as Milwaukee Bucks forward Thanasis Antetokounmpo (43) tries to defend during the fourth quarter at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports

Former Rutgers star Ron Harper Jr. delivered the highest scoring output of his NBA career on Sunday. The rookie scored 10 points on 4 of 6 shooting along with 4 rebounds and 1 assist in a career high 22 minutes of action for the Toronto Raptors. It was the first double digit scoring performance in the league. The Raptors won the regular season finale at home over the Milwaukee Bucks 121-105.

After joining the Raptors since his standout G League campaign concluded in late March, Harper Jr. had seen minimal action in the three previous games before Sunday. Harper Jr. averaged 17.1 points. 5.3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in 29 regular season games while shooting 50% from the field and 36% from 3-point range for the Raptors 905. His evolution as a player was on full display and his transition was extremely successful.

While Harper Jr. saw only spot duty with Toronto in being called up a few times, he made a statement on Sunday. Leaving such a positive impression with the organization in the last regular season game was important. The Raptors rested three key players ahead of Wednesday’s play-in tournament game against the Chicago Bulls. Whether Harper Jr. will get an opportunity to play remains to be seen.

The site Raptors Rapture made the case on Monday for the Scarlet Knight to be given a chance to earn a more permanent role for the club next season. His versatility has been a key part of his development. Harper Jr. has become a playmaking guard that can shoot the three, distribute the rock and defend multiple positions. He’s worked hard on his game while being patient to take advantage of opportunities. Sunday’s performance was the latest example.

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