Maria Harper stuns NBA fans with viral draft moment as Dylan Harper joins San Antonio Spurs
Maria Harper stuns NBA fans with viral draft moment as Dylan Harper joins San Antonio Spurs (Image Source: Getty Images)
NBA
player Dylan Harper's mother, Maria Harper became an instant sensation on June 25, at the 2025 NBA Draft at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. When her son was drafted second overall by the San Antonio Spurs, cameras panned to his family and that's when Maria stole the show.
Her serene comportment, chic appearance, and proud smile made her an overnight sensation.
Maria Harper steals spotlight after Dylan Harper's NBA Draft pick by San Antonio Spurs
Dylan Harper is a 19 year old standout from Rutgers and had the biggest night of his life on Wednesday, June 25. The NBA draft was in full swing at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn when the San Antonio Spurs called his name as No. 2 choice.
Just moments before, Cooper Flagg was selected first by the Dallas Mavericks. Dylan made his way to the stage, greeted NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, and smiled widely.
As this happened, ESPN turned the camera to Dylan's family. They were clapping and cheering. But what caught everyone's attention was his mother, Maria. She wore a black dress and stood still with the rest of the family.
The camera only stayed on her for a short moment. In just minutes, people online started talking. Clips and photos of Maria began showing up everywhere.
Maria Harper played Division I basketball years ago and helped train Dylan Harper throughout his childhood.
During the short ESPN interview, Maria spoke clearly and warmly about her son. 'It's his love for basketball,' she said. 'He works hard every single day. He's humble. That's why he's here.'
Fans online called Maria everything from 'beautiful' to 'strong' and 'inspiring.' Her appearance became a trending topic across platforms like X (formerly
Twitter
) and
Instagram
. Many users said she 'stole the show' on what was supposed to be her son's big night.
Chloe Kitts and Maria Harper turn heads on NBA Draft night
Maria Harper wasn't the only one who caught eyes during the draft. Chloe Kitts, a women's college basketball star from South Carolina, showed up to support her boyfriend, Collin Murray-Boyles, who was also drafted that night. She stood by his side during interviews and family celebrations.
People online also noticed Chloe for her poise and style. Photos of her went viral, with fans calling her 'stunning' and 'a star herself.'
Just like Maria, Chloe became a surprise highlight during the night full of big picks and bright lights.
The 2025 NBA draft was not just about players being selected. It was also about the people behind them, who stood next to them for years. While the spotlight was on the future stars, the quiet strength next to them was equally powerful.
Also Read:
NBA Draft 2025: How and when to watch Round 2 - Time, date, venue, and more
Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
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