Joe Harris has announced his retirement from the NBA, capping off a 10-year career highlighted by his sharpshooting prowess. Harris' journey through the league saw him make a significant impact with the Brooklyn Nets, where he became one of the top three-point shooters in NBA history.
Harris, who retires with a remarkable 43.5% shooting percentage from beyond the arc, ranks fifth all-time in league history. Over the course of his career, he averaged 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, maintaining an impressive 47.9% field goal percentage.
Early Beginnings and College Success
Hailing from the University of Virginia, Harris was a standout player in college basketball. He spent four years with the Cavaliers, earning a spot on the All-ACC team twice. During his senior season, Harris played a pivotal role in leading Virginia to a 30-7 record, securing an ACC Conference championship and an appearance in the Sweet Sixteen. His outstanding performance in 2014 also earned him a place on the All-ACC Tournament team and the prestigious ACC Tournament MVP honors.
Journey Through the NBA
The Cleveland Cavaliers selected Harris 33rd overall in the 2014 NBA Draft. However, his initial years in the league were marked by limited playing time. His tenure with the Cavaliers saw him struggling to find minutes on the court, which set the stage for pivotal changes in his professional career.
In 2016, Harris was traded to the Orlando Magic but was waived on the same day, creating a turning point that would eventually lead to his rise with the Brooklyn Nets. Later that year, he signed with the Nets during the offseason, beginning a new chapter marked by consistent improvement and notable achievements.
Finding His Groove with the Brooklyn Nets
Harris' first season with the Nets saw him averaging 22 minutes per game as he adapted to his new team. By his third season, he had cemented his role as a full-time starter, posting averages of 13.7 points per game. His exceptional shooting skills came to the forefront, as Harris led the league in three-point shooting percentage with an astonishing 47.4%.
The 2020-21 season further solidified Harris' status as an elite shooter. He once again topped the league in three-point shooting percentage and recorded an average of 14.1 points per game. This season was particularly significant as Harris played alongside Kevin Durant and James Harden, contributing to a formidable Nets team that made a strong playoff run.
Despite facing challenges, including two ankle surgeries that limited him to just 14 games in a subsequent season, Harris made a commendable return to the Nets. His resilience and determination were evident as he continued to be a valuable asset to the team. However, his career encountered another setback in July 2023 when he was traded to the Detroit Pistons, only to be waived at the trade deadline after a shoulder sprain restricted him to 16 games.
Crowning Achievements and Retirement
Harris' achievements were not confined to the regular season. He demonstrated his skills on the grand stage of the 2019 All-Star Weekend, winning the Three-Point Contest. This accolade underscored his proficiency beyond the arc, highlighting his status as one of the league's most reliable shooters.
At the age of 32, Harris has decided to retire from professional basketball. Reflecting on his career, it's clear that Harris was more than just a shooter; he was a key starter on several playoff-bound Nets teams, consistently providing valuable contributions on both ends of the court. His journey from limited minutes in Cleveland to becoming a three-point specialist in Brooklyn is a testament to his hard work, adaptability, and dedication to the sport.
As Joe Harris hangs up his sneakers, he leaves behind a legacy of resilience, sharp shooting, and professionalism that will be remembered by fans and players alike. His career, marked by steady progress and significant achievements, serves as an inspiring story for aspiring basketball players. While he steps away from the court, his impact on the game remains indelible.