Joe Harris, known for his sharpshooting prowess, has officially announced his retirement from the NBA after a memorable 10-year career. The 32-year-old shooting guard leaves behind an impressive legacy, having spent the majority of his professional journey with the Brooklyn Nets.
Early Career and College Success
Selected 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft, Harris entered the league with a solid foundation from his college days. At the University of Virginia, Harris was a standout player, being named a two-time All-ACC member. His senior season was particularly notable as he played a pivotal role in leading Virginia to a 30-7 record, an ACC Conference championship, and an appearance in the Sweet Sixteen. His performance earned him a spot on the All-ACC Tournament team and the honor of ACC Tournament MVP in 2014.
Pro Beginnings and Challenges
Harris' transition to the NBA was anything but smooth. In his first two seasons with the Cavaliers, he found himself with limited minutes on the court. A brief stint with the Orlando Magic in 2016 saw him being waived the same day he was traded. However, a fresh start awaited him that offseason when he signed with the Brooklyn Nets.
Harris' initial season with the Nets in 2016 showed promise, averaging 22 minutes per game. His consistent hard work paid off, and by the 2018-19 season, he had become a full-time starter. Averaging 13.7 points per game, Harris led the league in three-point shooting with an impressive 47.4% that season. This period marked the beginning of his rise as one of the NBA's elite three-point shooters.
Peak Years and Achievements
The 2020-21 season further cemented Harris' reputation. He once again led the league in three-point shooting percentage, this time averaging 14.1 points per game. During this period, he was a key part of a Nets team that featured superstars Kevin Durant and James Harden. Harris' sharpshooting ability made him an essential component of the team's offensive strategy.
A notable highlight of his career came during the 2019 All-Star Weekend when he won the Three-Point Contest, showcasing his exceptional skill and earning him a spot among the game's best shooters.
Adversity and Resilience
Harris' career was not without its challenges. A season marred by two ankle surgeries limited him to only 14 games. Yet, his determination saw him return to the Nets, where he continued to contribute significantly when on the floor.
In July 2023, Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons. Unfortunately, a shoulder sprain further restricted his playing time, limiting him to just 16 games before he was waived at the trade deadline. Despite these setbacks, Harris' contributions to his teams, particularly the Nets, remained impactful.
Legacy and Retirement
Joe Harris retires with remarkable career statistics, most notably a 43.5% shooting percentage from three-point range, the fifth highest in NBA history. His overall career averages include 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, with a commendable 47.9% field goal percentage. Beyond the numbers, Harris was known as a dedicated team player, often stepping up in crucial moments during the Nets' playoff runs.
Announcing his retirement at 32, Harris leaves the game with a strong legacy as one of the league's premier shooters. His journey from college standout to NBA star demonstrates the power of perseverance, hard work, and seizing opportunities. While his presence on the court will be missed, the memories of his sharpshooting excellence will continue to inspire future generations of basketball players.