Joe Harris announced his retirement from the NBA, capping a 10-year career marked by sharpshooting brilliance and steady perseverance. Harris, who spent most of his professional journey with the Brooklyn Nets, retires with a legacy of precision, boasting a 43.5% shooting percentage from three-point range, the fifth highest in NBA history.
Early Career and College Glory
Harris's professional path started when he was selected 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft. Prior to his NBA debut, Harris had a distinguished collegiate career at the University of Virginia. As a two-time All-ACC member, he made significant contributions to the Cavaliers. In 2014, he earned a spot on the All-ACC Tournament team and was named the Tournament MVP.
His senior season was particularly noteworthy as he played a pivotal role in leading Virginia to a stellar 30-7 record, clinching the ACC Conference championship and advancing to the Sweet Sixteen.
NBA Journey: From Limited Minutes to Stardom
In his first two seasons with the Cavaliers, Harris saw limited playing time, which stunted his early career growth. A turning point came in 2016, when he was traded to the Orlando Magic, only to be waived the same day. This twist of fate led Harris to sign with the Brooklyn Nets during the 2016 offseason, a move that would define the remainder of his career.
Brooklyn Breakout
Harris averaged 22 minutes per game in his first season with the Nets, gradually establishing himself as a reliable contributor. Two seasons later, he had solidified his place as a full-time starter, averaging 13.7 points per game and leading the league in three-point shooting with an impressive 47.4%.
His upward trajectory continued in the 2020-21 season, where he once again led the league in three-point shooting percentage, hitting 14.1 points per game. The Nets, bolstered by the likes of Kevin Durant and James Harden, saw Harris as an essential starter in their playoff pushes.
Challenges and Comebacks
However, Harris’s career was not without its challenges. He underwent two ankle surgeries that sidelined him for much of a season, limiting him to 14 games. Yet, his determination saw him return to action with the Nets, maintaining his role as a key player.
In July 2023, Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons, but a shoulder sprain hampered his performance, limiting his appearances to just 16 games before he was waived at the trade deadline.
Accolades and Legacy
Among his many career highlights, Harris's victory in the Three-Point Contest during the 2019 All-Star Weekend stands out. This accolade underscored his reputation as one of the league’s elite shooters.
Harris's career averages of 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, with a 47.9% field goal percentage, reflect his consistent ability to contribute on the court. More than just numbers, Harris's journey is a testament to his perseverance and work ethic. As a key starter on several playoff-bound Nets teams, his impact went beyond just scoring, embodying the spirit of teamwork and resilience.
At 32 years old, Harris has decided to hang up his sneakers and retire from professional basketball. His departure marks the end of a notable chapter for an athlete who turned adversity into opportunity, leaving an indelible mark on the NBA.
While the league bids farewell to one of its finest shooters, Harris's influence will undoubtedly be felt for years to come as a benchmark for aspiring players aiming to make their mark from beyond the arc.