Harper Jr. has spent most of his professional journey building toward a stable NBA role. Undrafted in 2022, he spent the next several seasons moving between two-way deals with multiple organizations before earning a permanent spot on the Celtics’ roster. He returned to Boston last September on an exhibit-10 training camp deal, betting on himself and the program. His steady progress culminated in a place on the Celtics’ active roster for the 2025-26 season, and now a four-year home in Boston.
What Harper Jr. Has Shown
In 29 regular-season appearances last season, Harper Jr. shot 35 percent from three-point range, averaging 4.0 points in 11.0 minutes per game. Beyond the box score, his play highlighted a defensive mindset and versatility that fit the Celtics’ approach.
One notable moment came on February 4, when Harper Jr. made his first NBA start against the Houston Rockets and was tasked with guarding Kevin Durant. Despite a size mismatch on paper—Harper Jr. stands 6-foot-5 with a 7-foot-1 wingspan—he stayed in front of Durant for stretches, contesting every shot and refusing to give him space. The results spoke volumes: Durant was limited to two points on 1-of-5 shooting with a turnover during the stretches Harper Jr. guarded him. Harper Jr. contributed 11 points, nine rebounds, and three assists in 33 minutes as Boston won 114-93.
In the G League with the Maine Celtics, Harper Jr. impressed with a 25.4-point scoring average, along with 38.7 percent from beyond the arc. He also averaged 5.1 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game, along with strong defensive production including steals and blocks per contest.
“The Celtics’ system is different from most teams in the league,” Harper Jr. said. “The standard we’re held to is higher than most NBA teams, and it carries from the top to the bottom of the roster.”
Final Word for the Celtics
Harper Jr., who spent four years chasing a stable NBA role after going undrafted, now has a four-year contract and a defined role within a roster built to emphasize depth, versatility, and defensive toughness. The mindset of staying ready and proving himself throughout the journey has paid off, reinforcing the Celtics’ approach of rewarding players who continually earn their place through effort and consistency.
This development adds another layer to a Celtics team focused on building a well-rounded rotation capable of contributing in various lineups and defensive schemes. Harper Jr.’s contract underscores the value the organization places on depth players who can adapt and contribute when called upon.
