Joe Harris Announces Retirement After a Decade in the NBA
Joe Harris, the renowned sharpshooter known for his precision from beyond the arc, has announced his retirement from the NBA after a 10-year career. Harris, who leaves the game at 32, departs with an illustrious legacy as one of the league's most reliable three-point marksmen.
A Journey Through the Ranks
Harris' professional journey began when he was drafted 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft. Prior to his leap to the NBA, Harris had enjoyed a stellar collegiate career at the University of Virginia. During his time there, he was a two-time All-ACC member and earned ACC Tournament MVP honors in 2014. His contributions were instrumental in leading Virginia to a 30-7 record, an ACC Conference championship, and a Sweet Sixteen appearance in his senior season.
Despite his college accolades, Harris found limited playtime in his first two seasons with the Cavaliers. His career trajectory shifted when he was traded to the Orlando Magic in 2016, despite being waived the same day. This turn of events led him to Brooklyn, a place where he would come into his own.
Brooklyn's Sharpshooter
Signing with the Brooklyn Nets in the 2016 offseason marked the beginning of Harris’ transformation into a premier three-point shooter. In his first season with the Nets, he averaged 22 minutes per game, a significant increase from his days in Cleveland. Two seasons later, Harris became a full-time starter, averaging 13.7 points per game and leading the league in three-point shooting with a staggering 47.4% accuracy.
The pinnacle of his shooting prowess came in the 2020-21 season, where he once again led the league in three-point percentage and averaged 14.1 points per game. His exceptional shooting made him a valuable asset to a star-studded Nets team featuring Kevin Durant and James Harden.
His contributions weren't limited to the regular season. Harris was a key starter on several playoff-bound Nets teams, providing vital scoring and floor-spacing abilities that stretched defenses and opened opportunities for his teammates. His success on All-Star Weekend in 2019, where he won the Three-Point Contest, further cemented his place among the league's elite shooters.
Overcoming Adversity
Harris' career wasn't without its challenges. Two ankle surgeries limited him to just 14 games in a subsequent season, a setback for both Harris and the Nets. Nonetheless, he made a return to the court, showcasing his resilience and dedication to the game.
In a quick turn of fate, Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons in July 2023. His stint with the Pistons was short-lived due to a shoulder sprain that restricted him to 16 games before being waived at the trade deadline.
Reflecting on a Memorable Career
Harris’ career averages of 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, bolstered by his overall field goal percentage of 47.9% and an impressive 43.5% from beyond the arc, speak volumes about his impact on the game. The latter statistic places him fifth in NBA history for three-point shooting percentage, a testament to his consistency and skill.
As Harris steps away from professional basketball, he leaves behind a legacy defined by tenacity, precision, and professionalism. His journey from a collegiate standout to an NBA sharpshooter serves as an inspiration to many aspiring players.
While his on-court exploits may have come to an end, Harris's influence on the game, especially in Brooklyn, will be felt for many years to come. Through highs and lows, Joe Harris has exemplified what it means to be a dedicated athlete and a true professional in the world of basketball.