Things have been going south for the Rutgers Scarlet Kings as they continue down a disappointing 3-6 conference run. Two names helping them remain on the map? Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey, who combine for a 38-point average per game. It has also made their case as top prospects in the NBA draft. But if one of these needed any more validation, LeBron James himself has weighed in, giving his stamp of approval.

In a recent post on X by Brandon Robinson, Lakers All-Star LeBron James made his admiration clear for Dylan Harper, stating, “Special kid, special talent. He’s gonna be really good in this league, comes from a great family…. Me, Harp and his pops go back a while, I’m excited.” James’s endorsement is more than just a pat on the back for Harper; it’s a validation of the 18-year-old’s skills and potential at the highest level of basketball.

But it wasn’t always this clear-cut for Dylan Harper and his family. Earlier, the spotlight shifted to his father, Ron Harper, a 15-year NBA veteran. The elder Harper, known for his time in the league and for being a five-time NBA champion, became the center of a storm after social media users misattributed his stance on his son’s NBA future.

“Correct a trade would happen!!!!” Ron had asserted over a Twitter speculation of the NBA star not letting his son be drafted by the Jazz. But the buzz has died down since the NBA champion made it clear that it was all a lighthearted comment and he wouldn’t really control his son’s life.

From Jazz drama to LeBron’s approval: The 18-year-old college star poised for NBA stardom

With that behind him, all eyes are now on the highly anticipated debut of the GOAT-approved 18-year-old in the league. And well, Dylan has proven his worth earning a 5-star recruit status and a 96 grade, ranking 4th for the class of 2024. He’s led the Rutgers Scarlet Knights to crucial wins, including a standout 21-point game against Nebraska and an 18-point performance against UCLA.

As the dust settled around the Utah Jazz drama, Dylan Harper’s basketball resume continued to speak for itself. The freshman sensation has been dominating at Rutgers, putting up an impressive 18.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game while shooting an efficient 48.8% from the field.

His stellar play has catapulted him into the top-tier prospects for the 2025 NBA Draft, with many draft experts projecting him and his Rutgers teammate Ace Bailey as a potential top-three pick. Hackathon, a respected draft site, currently has him pegged to land with the Jazz at number three.

Now, with LeBron James firmly in his corner, it’s clear that Harper’s journey is just getting started. The drama surrounding the Utah Jazz may have added some unexpected intrigue, but ultimately, it’s Dylan’s game that will determine where he lands. With the King’s endorsement and his own sky-high potential, it’s hard not to envision Harper making an immediate impact in the NBA.