Joe Harris Bids Farewell to NBA After a Decade of Sharpshooting
After an illustrious 10-year career, Joe Harris has announced his retirement from the NBA at 32 years old. Known for his remarkable accuracy from beyond the arc, Harris leaves an indelible mark on the game, finishing with a 43.5% shooting percentage from three-point range, the fifth highest in NBA history. His career averages of 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, paired with an overall 47.9% field goal percentage, highlight his consistency and efficiency on the court.
Early Beginnings in Cleveland and College Glory
Joe Harris' journey began when he was selected 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft. Despite his talents, Harris saw limited minutes in his first two seasons with the Cavaliers. His collegiate career, however, was a different story. Harris spent four years at the University of Virginia, where he became a two-time All-ACC member and earned ACC Tournament MVP honors in 2014. During his senior season, he played a pivotal role in leading Virginia to a 30-7 record, an ACC Conference championship, and a Sweet Sixteen appearance, illustrating his potential to perform under pressure.
Brooklyn Bound: Finding a Home with the Nets
A critical turning point in Harris' professional life came in 2016. After a brief stint with the Orlando Magic—where he was traded and waived on the same day—Harris found a new home with the Brooklyn Nets. Initially, he averaged 22 minutes per game in his first season, but his hard work and dedication soon paid off. Just two seasons later, he became a full-time starter, averaging 13.7 points per game and leading the league in three-point shooting with an impressive 47.4%.
Peak Performance and Injury Struggles
The 2020-21 season was a standout year for Harris. He led the league in three-point shooting percentage and posted career-high averages of 14.1 points per game. This remarkable performance secured his reputation as one of the NBA's elite sharpshooters. Harris' peak coincided with a star-studded Nets roster featuring Kevin Durant and James Harden, making them one of the most formidable teams in the league.
However, Harris' career was not without its challenges. He underwent two ankle surgeries, significantly limiting his playtime to just 14 games in a subsequent season. Despite these setbacks, Harris demonstrated resilience by making a successful return to the Nets in the following season.
Final Trades and the Curtain Call
In July 2023, Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons, but a shoulder sprain limited him to only 16 games. He was ultimately waived at the trade deadline, signaling the twilight of his professional career. Reflecting on his achievements and the physical toll of the sport, Harris decided to retire from professional basketball.
A Legacy of Precision and Perseverance
Among Harris' accolades is his victory in the Three-Point Contest during the 2019 All-Star Weekend, a testament to his elite shooting skills. Beyond statistics and titles, Harris was a key starter on several playoff-bound Nets teams, cementing his legacy as a reliable and formidable competitor on the court.
As Joe Harris steps away from the game, he leaves behind a legacy characterized by precision, perseverance, and professionalism. His journey from limited minutes in Cleveland to becoming a critical piece of the Brooklyn Nets' success story serves as an inspiring example for aspiring athletes. While fans will miss seeing him drain three-pointers, Harris' contributions to the game will be remembered for years to come.