In a move that has sent ripples through the NBA, the Boston Celtics have signed Ron Harper Jr., the son of five-time NBA champion Ron Harper, to an Exhibit 10 contract. This strategic signing offers Harper Jr. a golden opportunity to carve out a place in the league while giving the Celtics flexibility as they shape their roster for the upcoming season.
This year’s NBA Draft spotlighted the Harper family, with Dylan Harper, Ron Jr.’s younger brother, being selected second overall by the San Antonio Spurs. The Harper legacy, rooted in Ron Harper’s illustrious career, now sees another chapter unfolding as Ron Harper Jr. fights to secure his own NBA legacy.
Undrafted in 2022 after a standout college career at Rutgers University, Harper Jr. faced a challenging start to his professional journey. He signed two consecutive two-way contracts with the Toronto Raptors, but his time in the NBA has been limited, appearing in just 10 games with the Raptors and one with the Detroit Pistons. Most of his three-year professional career has been spent in the G League, honing his skills and battling for a chance to shine on the big stage.
The Exhibit 10 contract with the Celtics marks a pivotal moment for the 25-year-old guard. This non-guaranteed, one-year minimum deal allows Harper Jr. to compete for a roster spot during Boston’s training camp. The Celtics, fresh off their 2024 NBA championship, are known for their meticulous roster-building approach, and this move underscores their willingness to take calculated risks on high-potential talent.
The Exhibit 10 deal provides Boston with strategic options. If Harper Jr. doesn’t secure a spot on the active roster, the Celtics can waive him before the regular season and designate him as an affiliate player, retaining his G League rights. This ensures Harper Jr. remains within their system, developing with the Maine Celtics in the G League while staying on the radar for future call-ups.
For Harper Jr., this is more than just a contract—it’s a chance to prove he belongs in the NBA and to share the court with his brother Dylan in the future. With the Celtics’ championship pedigree and deep roster, earning a spot will be no easy feat. However, Harper Jr.’s work ethic, versatility, and basketball IQ—traits undoubtedly inherited from his father—make him a compelling prospect to watch.