Joe Harris Retires from the NBA After a Decade in the League
Joe Harris, a name synonymous with precision shooting and perseverance, has officially announced his retirement from the NBA. Harris bows out after an accomplished 10-year career, primarily with the Brooklyn Nets.
From Virginia to the NBA
Harris's journey to professional basketball began at the University of Virginia, where he spent four years honing his craft. During his collegiate career, Harris was a standout player, earning a spot on the All-ACC team twice. His exceptional performance peaked in 2014 when he was named to the All-ACC Tournament team and earned ACC Tournament MVP honors. That same year, Harris led the Cavaliers to a remarkable 30-7 record, clinching the ACC Conference championship and making an appearance in the Sweet Sixteen.
Selected 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft, Harris's early years in the NBA were marked by limited playing time. After two seasons with the Cavaliers, he was traded to the Orlando Magic in 2016, only to be waived the same day.
Finding a Home with the Brooklyn Nets
It was the 2016 offseason that brought a turning point in Harris's career when he signed with the Brooklyn Nets. Initially averaging 22 minutes per game, Harris steadily worked his way into a pivotal role within the team. By the 2018-19 season, he became a full-time starter, delivering an impressive 13.7 points per game and leading the league in three-point shooting with a remarkable 47.4% accuracy.
The 2020-21 season further cemented Harris's reputation as one of the NBA's elite marksmen. He led the league in three-point shooting percentage and posted an average of 14.1 points per game. That season, Harris was part of a formidable Nets lineup that included superstars Kevin Durant and James Harden, pushing the team into playoff contention.
Challenges and Resilience
Despite his success, Harris's career was not without its challenges. He underwent two ankle surgeries that sidelined him for the majority of one season, limiting his appearances to just 14 games. Nonetheless, his resilience saw him make a successful return to the Nets’ lineup.
In July 2023, Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons. Unfortunately, a shoulder sprain restricted him to just 16 games before he was waived at the trade deadline. Despite these setbacks, Harris's legacy in the league was firmly established.
A Stellar Shooting Career
Harris retires with a career three-point shooting percentage of 43.5%, ranking fifth highest in NBA history. His sharp shooting was acknowledged in 2019 when he claimed victory in the Three-Point Contest during the All-Star Weekend.
Throughout his career, Harris averaged 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, with an overall field goal percentage of 47.9%. His consistent performance and ability to deliver in crucial moments made him a valued player on several playoff-bound Nets teams.
Final Chapter at 32
At 32 years old, Harris has chosen to step away from professional basketball. His decision marks the end of a decade-long journey defined by determination, elite shooting, and contributions to team success. As he retires, Harris leaves behind a legacy of excellence and a model for aspiring basketball players.
While the NBA bids farewell to one of its finest shooters, Joe Harris's impact on the game will endure, inspiring future generations to follow in his footsteps. His story is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.