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Dylan Harper to Make Summer League Debut Saturday vs. Dallas Mavericks Despite Groin Injury

Dylan Harper, San Antonio Spurs, NBA
Photo via San Antonio Spurs

San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper is expected to make his NBA Summer League debut Saturday against the Dallas Mavericks, sources told DallasHoopsJournal.com.

Harper, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, sat out the Spurs’ appearances in the California Classic and their Las Vegas opener. The team has taken a cautious approach to his return, prioritizing long-term health. He has since been cleared to play and will be on a team-managed minutes restriction.

Saturday’s matchup at the Thomas & Mack Center is one of the most anticipated games of the Summer League, featuring a potential first showdown between Harper and top overall pick Cooper Flagg.

Flagg is coming off a gritty debut in the Mavericks’ 87–85 win over the Los Angeles Lakers. He finished with 10 points, six rebounds, four assists, three steals, and one block in 32 minutes. Though Flagg shot just 5-of-21 from the field and missed all five three-point attempts, his impact was felt late. In the final minute, he delivered a key block that led to Ryan Nembhard’s go-ahead three-pointer.

On Thursday, the Spurs opened their Las Vegas schedule with a 111–70 blowout win over the Philadelphia 76ers. David Jones-Garcia led the way with 24 points on 9-of-12 shooting, including 4-of-5 from three, adding five rebounds, three assists, and four steals. Riley Minix and Dexter Dennis each scored 14 points, while Kyle Mangas scored 11. Harrison Ingram contributed seven points, a game-high six rebounds, and four assists.

Tipoff between the Spurs and Mavericks is set for 3 p.m. CT on ESPN.

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Grant Afseth

Grant Afseth

Senior Writer
Grant Afseth is a Senior Writer for DallasHoopsJournal.com, where he leads in-depth coverage of the Mavericks, Wings, and more. Between a focus on the latest news, closer looks at games, front office strategy, and more, Afseth provides objective coverage. Afseth contributes broader NBA coverage across platforms and has been cited in national outlets for his reporting and analysis. With nearly a decade of journalism experience, Afseth has covered the NBA and WNBA for multiple major outlets, including Athlon Sports, BallIsLife, Sportskeeda, and RG.org. He previously reported on the Indiana Pacers for CNHI’s Kokomo Tribune and the Mavericks for FanNation.