11 Mavericks cult heroes everyone else should have loved

1. Derek Harper

Harp was the 11th overall pick by the Mavericks in 1983 and a crucial member of the team’s early success. The 6’4 point guard backed up Brad Davis for two and a half years before taking over as the starter in 1986. Harper was the team’s lead ball-handler in 1988 in their first run to the conference finals.

Derek Harper was a two-way force that never got the credit he deserved. He set up Mark Aguirre and Rolando Blackman as both became legends. Harp was never an All-Star, despite averaging 17.7 points, 7.0 assists, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.9 steals in 35.7 minutes per game over seven years from 1987 to 1993. He was named second-team All-Defense in 1987 and 1990, but Harp deserved more love outside of Dallas.

Derek Harper is just one of four Dallas Mavericks to have their jersey number retired, and the legend remains with the team as their television analyst. MFFLs know the 6'4 guard for his elite play and outstanding broadcast skills. Consider him a cult hero because few outside of Dallas remember his on-court game.

Mavs fans are not shy about supporting their team. They have turned several role players into legends, but who is next? Stay tuned to find out.