Dylan Harper, a remarkable player in his own right, was chosen by the San Antonio Spurs. He’s making headlines more for his deal, though.
Dylan, a member of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights basketball team, signed a four-year contract worth $56.1 million (with team options) in just a few minutes, with $25.4 million guaranteed in his first two seasons. Dylan reached a significant milestone before his career had even started when Commissioner Adam Silver made the announcement.
Dylan immediately made more money than his father, Ron Harper, who played in the NBA for 15 years.
How does Dylan Harper compare with his father, Ron?
Ron, a five-time champion with the Los Angeles Lakers and Chicago Bulls, earned almost $35 million in total compensation, $21 million less than Dylan’s rookie contract.
The disparity is still startling even after deducting inflation from Ron’s wages, which are currently about $63 million. The Chicago Bulls paid Ron $5.28 million in 1998, which was his highest-paid season. The NBA guard never made more than $5 million before or after that year in his 15-year career.
Every team Ron played for, including the Clippers, Cavaliers, Bulls, and Lakers, benefited greatly from his contributions. He finished his career with a game average of 13.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.9 assists. Nevertheless, the financial ceiling in his day was smaller, even with that resume.
Dennis Rodman, another five-time champion, earned just about $27 million in his career, so Ron is not the only legend whose earnings now appear paltry.
Not even 11-time All-Star and former MVP Charles Barkley ever earned more than $50 million in his playing career. He has made just over $40 million in his NBA career.
