SAN ANTONIO – The San Antonio Spurs held a press conference Saturday at the Rock at La Cantera to introduce the team’s selections in the 2025 NBA Draft.
The Spurs chose Dylan Harper from Rutgers University with the No. 2 overall pick and Carter Bryant from the University of Arizona at No. 14 in the first round.
Harper will wear No. 2 for the Silver and Black, while Bryant will sport No. 11.
Carter Bryant addresses the media
Bryant reflected on the Spurs’ rich history of success. He discussed the franchise’s championship banners and how that legacy might influence his career.
“I think for me, it’s just another motivator,” said Bryant.
Bryant explained that seeing those banners serves as a reminder of the high standards he needs to meet. He said that he has always been self-driven with big dreams and the Spurs’ history adds an extra layer of inspiration to his goals.
The 6 feet, 8 inch forward also shared the whirlwind of emotions he’s had since being drafted.
“There’s a lot of emotions going on. I’m thankful; I’m grateful. I’m just ready to get to work,” Bryant said.
Bryant said the reality of being an NBA player hasn’t fully sunk in yet. He described moments before sleep when it hits him that he is officially a Spur, highlighting how surreal the experience has been.
Bryant also discussed the Spurs’ legacy, mentioning greats such as Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili, and David Robinson.
“I just loved basketball growing up, so I mean everybody knew who Tony Parker and Manu and David Robinson and all these guys were,” Bryant said.
He sees the Spurs’ dynasty as a path that shaped his childhood and fueled his passion for the game.
When asked about representing Latinos in the NBA, Bryant acknowledged the importance of his role.
“It means everything. I think for me, I was just trying to represent everything as well as I can, whether that’s the Latino community, the deaf community, Riverside, California, whatever the case may be, along with the African American community as well,” said Bryant.
Dylan Harper takes the podium
The No. 2 overall pick, Harper, then took the stage and was asked about his emotions after seeing the Spurs’ banners at the Rock at La Cantera.
“I mean, first of all, I’m just grateful to be in this position with such a great organization,” Harper said.
He explained that growing up, the Spurs were one of the teams he always dreamed of playing for. Harper stated that the team’s dynasty and championship banners motivates him to contribute to building on that legacy.
Harper outlined his goals for his NBA debut, emphasizing his competitive mindset.
“First, I want to win every game we play,” he said.
Harper described the summer league as an opportunity to get his feet wet and showcase his best self. He stressed that his mentality is to do whatever it takes to help the team win.
He also spoke about the Spurs’ culture, which he described as a family atmosphere built on loyalty and mutual respect.
“Like, yesterday, I’m just working out and I randomly see Tim Duncan, Greg Popovich and Manu Ginobili,” Harper said. “Like, that’s not something you’ll see in any other organization.”
When asked about the pressure to continue the success of recent Spurs rookies, Harper said, “I mean, I don’t think I feel no pressure, but I definitely want to keep that going.”
He acknowledged the achievements of Stephon Castle and Victor Wembanyama, the last two Rookie of the Year award winners. Harper’s said his focus, however, is on daily improvement and learning from those around him.
Harper also shared advice from Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson, who encouraged him to “definitely just be yourself.” Harper told the media that Johnson said they picked him for a reason and that staying true to himself is key to his success.
Harper also addressed the Spurs’ six-season playoff drought with confidence.
“That’s going to change really quick,” Harper said. “That’s going to change quick. I mean, we’re going to make the playoffs.”
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