Joe Harris Retires from NBA After a Decade-Long Career
After a commendable 10-year journey in the NBA, Joe Harris has decided to hang up his sneakers. The 32-year-old sharpshooter, widely known for his deadly accuracy from beyond the arc, announced his retirement, capping off a career characterized by resilience, growth, and remarkable consistency.
Early Journey and University Success
Harris' path to the NBA began at the University of Virginia, where he was a standout player. During his four years with the Cavaliers, Harris achieved numerous accolades. He was a two-time All-ACC member and was named to the All-ACC Tournament team in 2014, further earning the ACC Tournament MVP honors the same year. Harris played a pivotal role in leading Virginia to a stellar 30-7 record, clinching an ACC Conference championship and reaching the Sweet Sixteen in his senior season.
Transition to the NBA
In the 2014 NBA Draft, Harris was selected 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers. His initial years in the league, however, were marked by limited playing time. After two seasons with the Cavaliers, Harris was traded to the Orlando Magic in 2016, only to be waived the same day. This temporary setback led Harris to a new beginning with the Brooklyn Nets, where he would eventually leave a lasting imprint.
Brooklyn Nets: A New Chapter
Signing with the Brooklyn Nets in the 2016 offseason was a turning point in Harris' career. He averaged 22 minutes per game in his first season and quickly began to establish himself as a reliable shooter and a crucial part of the team. Two seasons later, Harris transitioned into a full-time starter, posting an average of 13.7 points per game and leading the league in three-point shooting with an impressive 47.4% rate.
Harris' proficiency from the three-point line was a constant throughout his career. He retires with a 43.5% three-point shooting percentage, the fifth highest in NBA history. His tenure with the Nets was marked by several milestones, including leading the league in three-point shooting percentage during the 2020-21 season while averaging 14.1 points per game. That same season, Harris was a key component of a star-studded Nets lineup, featuring Kevin Durant and James Harden.
Challenges and Returns
Despite his shooting brilliance, Harris faced his share of challenges. Two ankle surgeries severely limited his playtime, confining him to just 14 games in a subsequent season. However, Harris' determination saw him return to the Nets, continuing to contribute to the team's efforts on the court. His resilience was a testament to his dedication and love for the game.
In July 2023, Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons. Unfortunately, a shoulder sprain restricted him to 16 games with the Pistons before he was waived at the trade deadline. Reflecting on his career and the physical toll it had taken, Harris made the decision to retire from professional basketball.
Legacy and Recognition
Harris' career averages stand at 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, with a 47.9% field goal percentage. In addition to his consistent performance, Harris left an indelible mark on the NBA with significant achievements. He notably won the Three-Point Contest during the 2019 All-Star Weekend, further solidifying his reputation as one of the league's top shooters.
As a key starter on several playoff-bound Nets teams, Harris' contributions went beyond the stat sheet. His presence on the court and his ability to deliver in crucial moments made him an invaluable asset to his teams. Harris' journey from a university standout to an NBA veteran serves as an inspiring narrative of perseverance, skill, and professional growth.
Joe Harris' retirement marks the end of an era for a player whose career was defined by his exceptional shooting and steadfast work ethic. As he steps away from the hardwood, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and a model for aspiring basketball players to emulate.