The Harper name will be on an NBA roster for years to come. Ron Harper Jr., son of the five-time champion, signed a new multi-year contract with the Boston Celtics in late June - the payoff for a season in which he turned limited minutes into a genuine role.
The younger Harper appeared in 29 regular-season games for Boston and saved his loudest statement for the season finale, pouring in a career-high 27 points with 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals in a win over Orlando. Boston restructured his deal specifically to keep him around longer - the kind of commitment that tells a player he belongs.
For the elder Harper, it is a point of quiet pride. He has always framed his son's path - Rutgers standout, undrafted signing, two-way grinder, rotation player - as its own kind of championship run: nothing given, everything earned.
Basketball fans love a bloodline, and this one runs deep. Between the father's five rings with the Bulls and Lakers and the son's rise in Boston, the Harpers have now touched three of the NBA's most storied franchises.
Asked over the years what advice he gives his son, Harper has kept it simple: play defense, know your role, and be a great teammate. It worked for five rings. It appears to be working again.