Joe Harris Announces Retirement After Illustrious 10-Year NBA Career
After a remarkable 10-year stint in the NBA, Joe Harris has officially announced his retirement from professional basketball at the age of 32. Over his career, Harris has been a model of consistency, leaving an indelible mark on the league, particularly with his sharpshooting abilities.
Early Career and College Accomplishments
Harris' journey to the NBA began at the University of Virginia, where he spent four years honing his skills. During his time at Virginia, Harris was twice named to the All-ACC team and had a standout senior season, leading the Cavaliers to a 30-7 record, an ACC Conference championship, and an appearance in the Sweet Sixteen. His performances culminated in being named to the All-ACC Tournament team and earning the ACC Tournament MVP honors in 2014.
Selected 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft, Harris initially encountered limited opportunities and playing time. Despite the early challenges, he persevered, showcasing his potential whenever called upon.
Stint with the Brooklyn Nets
After a brief period with the Cavaliers and a short-lived trade to the Orlando Magic in 2016, Harris found a new home with the Brooklyn Nets. Signing with the Nets in the 2016 offseason proved to be a turning point in his career. Harris quickly established himself as a reliable contributor, averaging 22 minutes per game in his first season.
Two seasons later, Harris evolved into a full-time starter, boasting an impressive average of 13.7 points per game and leading the league in three-point shooting with a dazzling 47.4% accuracy. His sharpshooting prowess continued into the 2020-21 season, where he once again topped the league in three-point shooting percentage, averaging 14.1 points per game.
Injuries and Comeback
Despite his success, Harris' career was not without its setbacks. Ankle surgeries significantly limited his playing time, confining him to just 14 games in one season. Yet, he demonstrated resilience, working his way back to rejoin the Nets and contribute meaningfully once again.
His time with the Nets also saw him share the court with NBA luminaries such as Kevin Durant and James Harden, further solidifying his status as a crucial component of the team. Harris was an essential player on several playoff-bound Nets squads, consistently providing clutch performances when needed.
Final Chapter with the Detroit Pistons
In July 2023, Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons. Unfortunately, a shoulder sprain limited his appearances to just 16 games before he was waived at the trade deadline. The persistent injuries and the physical toll of the NBA grind ultimately led Harris to conclude that it was time to step away from professional basketball.
A Legacy of Excellence
Throughout his decade-long career, Harris built a reputation as one of the most accurate three-point shooters in NBA history. His 43.5% shooting percentage from beyond the arc ranks fifth all-time, a testament to his exceptional skill and unwavering dedication. Additionally, his career averages of 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, coupled with a 47.9% field goal percentage, highlight his well-rounded contributions on the court.
Harris also etched his name in the annals of All-Star Weekend lore by winning the Three-Point Contest in 2019, further solidifying his status as one of the league's premier shooters.
As Joe Harris steps away from professional basketball, he leaves behind a legacy defined by perseverance, professionalism, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His journey from a collegiate standout to an NBA sharpshooting legend will be remembered fondly by fans and peers alike.