Joe Harris Announces Retirement After a Decade in the NBA
Joe Harris, renowned for his sharpshooting skills, has announced his retirement from the NBA after a 10-year career. The Brooklyn Nets, the team with which Harris spent the majority of his professional journey, broke the news on their social media channels. Harris retires as one of the most efficient three-point shooters in the league's history, cementing his legacy with an impressive 43.5% shooting percentage from beyond the arc, the fifth highest in NBA annals.
Harris' career averages stand at 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, with a commendable field goal percentage of 47.9%. Selected 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft, Harris' journey to NBA prominence was not without its challenges and triumphs.
Early Career and College Success
Before stepping onto the NBA hardwood, Harris spent four years at the University of Virginia, where he left an indelible mark. A two-time All-ACC member, he was named to the All-ACC Tournament team in 2014 and earned ACC Tournament MVP honors the same year. His senior season was particularly noteworthy; Harris played a crucial role in leading Virginia to a stellar 30-7 record, an ACC Conference championship, and an appearance in the Sweet Sixteen.
The transition to the NBA saw Harris experiencing limited minutes in his first two seasons with the Cavaliers. In 2016, he was traded to the Orlando Magic but was waived the same day, leaving him unsigned for the remainder of the 2015-16 season.
Rise with the Brooklyn Nets
Harris’ career trajectory took a positive turn when he signed with the Brooklyn Nets during the 2016 offseason. Initially averaging 22 minutes per game in his first season with the Nets, Harris gradually evolved into a pivotal player. Two seasons later, Harris became a full-time starter, averaging 13.7 points per game and leading the league in 3-point shooting with a remarkable 47.4%.
The 2020-21 season saw Harris again dominate from beyond the arc, leading the league in three-point shooting percentage and averaging 14.1 points per game. That year, he was part of an impressive Nets team featuring superstars Kevin Durant and James Harden, narrowly missing a trip to the Eastern Conference Finals.
Unfortunately, Harris' momentum was halted in the subsequent season due to two ankle surgeries, limiting him to just 14 games. However, his resilience shone through as he returned to the Nets the following season, though his journey with the team ended when he was traded to the Detroit Pistons in July 2023.
Final Season and Retirement
Harris' stint with the Pistons was marred by a shoulder sprain, restricting him to just 16 games before he was waived by the team at the trade deadline. Reflecting on his career, one of Harris’ notable achievements was winning the Three-Point Contest during the 2019 All-Star Weekend, showcasing his exceptional shooting prowess on a grand stage.
As a key starter on several playoff-bound Nets teams, Harris' contributions were invaluable. At 32 years old, Harris decided to hang up his sneakers, closing the chapter on a decade-long career characterized by perseverance, skill, and dedication.
Harris' legacy as an extraordinary three-point shooter and a reliable player who overcame early career challenges to make a significant mark in the NBA will be remembered fondly by fans and teammates alike. His journey serves as a testament to hard work and the ability to seize opportunities, embodying the true spirit of professional sports.