Spurs Hand Down Kawhi’s Legendary No. 2 — Filipino-American Dylan Harper to Rock Iconic Jersey as 2nd Overall Pick
SAN ANTONIO, TX — The San Antonio Spurs made headlines on draft night by selecting Filipino-American phenom Dylan Harper with the No. 2 overall pick, and now they’ve made another statement that has fans buzzing. The 19-year-old rising star will officially wear the iconic No. 2 jersey, last worn by none other than Kawhi Leonard, the Finals MVP and franchise legend who helped deliver the Spurs’ fifth NBA championship in 2014.
For Harper, it’s more than just a number — it’s an inheritance loaded with expectation, history, and the promise of a new era in San Antonio.
🌟 A New Face, A Familiar Number
The No. 2 jersey hasn’t been worn in San Antonio since 2018, when Kawhi Leonard’s departure left a lingering sense of unfinished business. Now, the Spurs are placing their trust in Harper — a player known for his electrifying athleticism, polished scoring ability, and court vision well beyond his years — to carry that legacy forward.
“It’s an honor to wear No. 2,” Harper said during his introductory press conference. “Kawhi set the standard for what it means to represent this city. I’m here to create my own chapter while respecting the history that came before me.”
🇵🇭 A Proud Moment for the Filipino-American Community
Harper’s selection and jersey reveal also mark a proud moment for the global basketball community, particularly for Filipino-Americans and fans across the Philippines, where basketball passion runs deep.
As one of the highest-drafted Filipino-American players in NBA history, Harper’s journey is being celebrated as a breakthrough for representation in the sport.
Social media has been flooded with support, with hashtags like #Puso, #DylanHarper, and #SpursFuture trending worldwide following the announcement.
🏀 The Legacy of No. 2 in San Antonio
The No. 2 jersey holds a special place in Spurs lore:
✔️ Kawhi Leonard (2011-2018) — 2x Defensive Player of the Year, NBA Finals MVP, 4x All-Defensive Team
✔️ Sparked the franchise’s 2014 NBA title run
✔️ Known for his defensive dominance and ice-cold clutch moments
With Harper now donning the number, expectations will be sky-high, but team officials believe the young guard is prepared for the challenge.
🔍 Why the Spurs Believe in Dylan Harper
At 6-foot-5 with a deadly first step, smooth perimeter shot, and natural playmaking instincts, Harper was widely regarded as one of the most NBA-ready prospects in this year’s draft class.
Scouts have compared his style to a hybrid of Jamal Murray and Devin Booker, with flashes of elite defensive potential reminiscent of — you guessed it — Kawhi Leonard.
The Spurs see Harper as the perfect complement to last year’s No. 1 pick, Victor Wembanyama, forming a young, dynamic duo that could return San Antonio to championship contention in the coming years.
💭 What Fans Are Saying
“Harper wearing Kawhi’s number? That’s a statement. The future is here.” — @SpursTalk
“Filipino pride and Spurs tradition — what a combo. Let’s go Dylan!” — @PinoyHoops
“We lost Kawhi, but maybe… just maybe, Harper is the start of something even bigger.” — @NBAonTX
🔮 The Road Ahead
While Harper’s talent is undeniable, the real test will be how he handles the expectations that come with the No. 2 jersey and playing alongside a generational talent like Wembanyama.
The Spurs are expected to take a patient approach, focusing on development, chemistry, and building a foundation for sustained success.
