Joe Harris Announces Retirement After Remarkable 10-Year NBA Career
Joe Harris, one of the NBA's most consistent sharpshooters over the past decade, has announced his retirement from professional basketball. The 32-year-old veteran concludes his career with an impressive three-point shooting percentage of 43.5%, ranking fifth in NBA history.
Harris entered the league as the 33rd overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers. Initially, he experienced limited playing time, struggling to find his footing during his first two seasons. The Cavaliers traded him to the Orlando Magic in 2016, but he was waived shortly thereafter.
Finding His Place with the Brooklyn Nets
It was during the 2016 offseason that Harris’s career trajectory took a significant turn. Signing with the Brooklyn Nets, Harris quickly established himself as a key player. In his first season, he averaged 22 minutes per game, showcasing his potential as a reliable scorer and shooter.
Two seasons later, Harris solidified his status as a full-time starter. He averaged 13.7 points per game and led the league in three-point shooting with a remarkable 47.4%. His sharpshooting ability became a critical component of the Nets' offensive scheme.
Peak Performance and Setbacks
The 2020-21 season saw Harris reach new heights. Averaging 14.1 points per game, he once again led the league in three-point shooting percentage. That season, he was part of a formidable Nets team featuring superstars Kevin Durant and James Harden, turning the Nets into serious contenders.
However, Harris's career was not without its challenges. He underwent two ankle surgeries that limited him to just 14 games in a subsequent season. Despite these setbacks, Harris made a successful return to the Nets, continuing to contribute whenever he was on the court.
End of an Era
In July 2023, Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons. A shoulder sprain further hindered his ability to play, limiting him to only 16 games before he was waived at the trade deadline. Faced with mounting physical challenges and after a fulfilling career, Harris decided to step away from the game.
Harris's time in the NBA is marked by several noteworthy achievements. He won the Three-Point Contest during the 2019 All-Star Weekend, affirming his reputation as one of the league's elite shooters. Over his career, he maintained averages of 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, with an overall field goal percentage of 47.9%.
Collegiate Success
Before his professional career, Harris was a standout player at the University of Virginia. He spent four years with the Cavaliers, earning two-time All-ACC honors. In 2014, he was named to the All-ACC Tournament team and earned the prestigious ACC Tournament MVP honors. Harris played a vital role in leading Virginia to a 30-7 record, an ACC Conference championship, and an appearance in the Sweet Sixteen during his senior season.
Legacy
Harris's journey from a second-round pick with limited minutes to becoming one of the most respected shooters in the league is nothing short of inspiring. His dedication to improving his game and his perseverance through injuries earned him the admiration of fans and peers alike.
As Harris steps away from the hardwood, his legacy as a pure shooter and a consummate professional will be remembered. His contributions to the Brooklyn Nets, including his role as a key starter on several playoff-bound teams, cement his place in the franchise's history.
Joe Harris leaves behind a career that young players can look up to—a testament to hard work, resilience, and excellence in the pursuit of basketball greatness.