Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey, two highly sought-after college basketball recruits, have joined forces at Rutgers University. Inspired by mentors Michael Jordan and Stephen Curry, they aspire to revitalize the program and leave a lasting legacy.
When Michael Jordan arrived in Chicago in 1984, the Bulls were a perennial underachiever. Similarly, when Steph Curry joined the Golden State Warriors in 2009, they were languishing in obscurity. Yet, both players transformed their respective franchises into champions. Now, Harper and Bailey, the top-ranked recruits in their class, aim to follow in their footsteps.
Harper, the son of former Bulls player Ron Harper, chose Rutgers over powerhouse schools like Duke and Indiana. Despite the Scarlet Knights' modest history, Harper was drawn to the opportunity to make an immediate impact. Bailey, the nation's No. 3 recruit, was equally impressed by the program's potential.
Rutgers Recruits Harper and Bailey Aim to Emulate Jordan and Curry
Both players have received invaluable guidance from Jordan and Curry. Harper has learned the importance of hard work and dedication, while Bailey has been inspired by Curry's unwavering work ethic. These lessons have fueled their aspirations to join the NBA after just one season in college.
Harper and Bailey are not alone in their ambitions. Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 recruit in the nation, is also highly regarded as a future NBA star. However, for now, the Rutgers duo remains focused on the present. They are determined to lead the Scarlet Knights to their first conference title and NCAA Tournament success.
Rutgers Recruits Harper and Bailey Aim to Emulate Jordan and Curry
Rutgers has a long way to go. They have not won a conference title since joining the Big 10 in 2014, and their NCAA Tournament appearances have been few and far between. Nevertheless, Harper and Bailey believe they can be the catalysts for change.
They draw inspiration from Curry, who led Davidson to the Elite Eight in 2008, and Jordan, who won a national championship with North Carolina in 1982. Harper and Bailey dream of leaving an equally enduring legacy at Rutgers.
Rutgers Recruits Harper and Bailey Aim to Emulate Jordan and Curry
Their journey is just beginning, but their potential is undeniable. With the guidance of Jordan and Curry, they are poised to make a significant impact on college basketball and potentially become the next faces of USA Basketball.
