After a decade-long career in the NBA, Joe Harris has announced his retirement. The 32-year-old shooting guard has been a prominent figure, particularly during his time with the Brooklyn Nets, where he became known for his exceptional three-point shooting.
A Remarkable Shooter
Harris retires with a remarkable 43.5% shooting percentage from beyond the arc, placing him fifth on the NBA's all-time list for three-point accuracy. His career averages include 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, with an overall field goal percentage of 47.9%. These statistics underscore his consistent performance as a reliable scorer and sharpshooter.
Early Career and College Success
Joe Harris's basketball journey began at the University of Virginia, where he played for four years. During his collegiate career, he was a two-time All-ACC member. In 2014, Harris was named to the All-ACC Tournament team and earned MVP honors, playing a pivotal role in leading Virginia to an ACC Conference championship and an appearance in the NCAA Tournament's Sweet Sixteen with a 30-7 record in his senior season.
NBA Beginnings
Harris was selected 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft. His early years in the NBA were challenging, with limited playing time in his first two seasons. A trade to the Orlando Magic in 2016 seemed like a fresh start, but he was waived the same day. It wasn’t until he signed with the Brooklyn Nets during the 2016 offseason that his professional career began to flourish.
Rise with the Brooklyn Nets
In his first season with the Nets, Harris averaged 22 minutes per game. His role continued to grow, and two seasons later, he became a full-time starter, averaging 13.7 points per game while leading the league in three-point shooting with an impressive 47.4%. The 2020-21 season marked another peak for Harris, as he once again led the league in three-point shooting percentage and averaged 14.1 points per game. He was an integral part of a formidable Nets team alongside superstars Kevin Durant and James Harden.
Injuries and Return
Harris’s career was not without its setbacks. He underwent two ankle surgeries, limiting him to just 14 games in a subsequent season. Despite these challenges, he made a return to the Nets, displaying resilience and determination.
Final Season and Retirement
In July 2023, Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons. Unfortunately, his time with the Pistons was hampered by a shoulder sprain, which restricted him to 16 games before being waived at the trade deadline. At the age of 32, Harris decided to hang up his sneakers and retire from professional basketball.
Legacy and Highlights
Throughout his career, Harris was not just a regular season performer but also a key starter on several playoff-bound teams. His prowess was showcased during the 2019 All-Star Weekend when he won the Three-Point Contest, highlighting his exceptional shooting ability to a national audience.
As Joe Harris steps away from the game, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence in long-range shooting and a reputation as a hardworking, reliable player. His journey from college standout to NBA sharpshooter is a testament to his dedication and skill. The basketball community will undoubtedly remember his contributions and the exciting moments he brought to the court.