Joe Harris Announces Retirement After a Decade in the NBA
After a decade-long career in the NBA, Joe Harris has announced his retirement from professional basketball at the age of 32. Known for his sharpshooting abilities, Harris leaves behind a legacy marked by his time with the Brooklyn Nets and several impressive accolades.
Early Years and College Success
Joe Harris' journey to the NBA began at the University of Virginia, where he spent four years honing his skills. His college career was distinguished by notable achievements, including being a two-time All-ACC member and the ACC Tournament MVP in 2014. His stellar performance helped lead the Virginia Cavaliers to a 30-7 record, an ACC Conference championship, and an appearance in the Sweet Sixteen during his senior year.
Transition to the NBA
Selected 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft, Harris initially found it challenging to secure significant playing time. In his first two NBA seasons with the Cavaliers, he experienced limited minutes on the court. However, his stint with Cleveland was pivotal as it laid the foundation for his future success.
In 2016, Harris was traded to the Orlando Magic, only to be waived the same day. This turn of events led him to sign with the Brooklyn Nets during the 2016 offseason, a move that would redefine his career.
Finding His Groove with the Brooklyn Nets
Harris began to flourish in Brooklyn, where he averaged 22 minutes per game in his first season with the Nets. 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%.
The 2020-21 season saw Harris at his peak, again leading the league in three-point shooting percentage while averaging a career-high 14.1 points per game. He was a key figure alongside stars like Kevin Durant and James Harden, contributing significantly to the Nets' playoff runs.
Injuries and Recovery
Despite his success, Harris' career was not without its challenges. He underwent two ankle surgeries, which limited him to just 14 games in a subsequent season. Demonstrating resilience, Harris returned to the Nets after his recovery, continuing to provide valuable contributions on the court.
In July 2023, Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons. Unfortunately, a shoulder sprain limited him to 16 games with Detroit before he was waived at the trade deadline.
A Memorable Three-Point Shooter
Throughout his career, Harris built a reputation as one of the NBA’s top three-point shooters. Retiring with a 43.5% shooting percentage from beyond the arc, he holds the fifth-highest mark in NBA history. His sharpshooting was famously showcased when he won the Three-Point Contest during the 2019 All-Star Weekend.
Harris' overall career averages include 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, with an impressive 47.9% field goal percentage. These statistics underscore his shooting efficiency and his consistent role as a reliable scorer.
Legacy and Retirement
As Harris steps away from professional basketball, he leaves behind a notable legacy with the Brooklyn Nets, where he spent the majority of his career and served as a key starter on several playoff-bound teams. His contributions to the game, both as a college standout and an NBA sharpshooter, will be remembered by fans and teammates alike.
At 32 years old, Harris’ decision to retire marks the end of a significant chapter in his life, prompting reflections on a career characterized by perseverance, skill, and memorable achievements on the court.