Derek Harper

Harper played 14 of his 16 NBA seasons with the Dallas Mavericks — a level of franchise loyalty that defined the franchise's identity during its most formative era.

He is one of only four Dallas Mavericks players to have their jersey retired — alongside Brad Davis (#15), Rolando Blackman (#22), and Dirk Nowitzki (#41).

Harper and Rolando Blackman formed one of the most defensively cohesive backcourts in Western Conference history during the late 1980s.

During his playing career, Harper was known for his exceptional leadership in the locker room — mentoring younger players and setting professional standards that coaches credited with sustaining the franchise through difficult stretches.