Derek Harper

Derek Ricardo Harper (born October 13 1961 in Elberton, Georgia) is a former professional basketball player from the University of Illinois, who spent 16 seasons as a point guard in the National Basketball Association with the Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, Orlando Magic and Los Angeles Lakers.

Related Topics:
October 13 - 1961 - Elberton - Georgia - Basketball - University of Illinois - Point guard - National Basketball Association - Dallas Mavericks - New York Knicks - Orlando Magic - Los Angeles Lakers

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Harper was drafted by the Mavericks with the 11th overall pick of the 1983 NBA Draft and spent most of his first ten seasons with them, averaging 15 points and 6.1 assists. He was traded to the Knicks 28 games into the 1993-94 season. The Knicks were looking for a defensive point guard to replace Doc Rivers who went down with an injury that sidelined him for the whole season. This turned out to be a blessing for Harper-- the Mavericks were on their way to a 13-69 win-loss campaign, while Harper was an integral part of a Knicks team that came within one game of the 1994 NBA Championship.

Related Topics:
1983 NBA Draft - Doc Rivers

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Harper played for the Knicks through the 1995-96 season, returned to Dallas the following season, and played one season each with the Magic and Lakers before retiring.

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