Joe Harris Announces Retirement After a Decade in the NBA
After a distinguished 10-year career in the National Basketball Association, sharp-shooting guard Joe Harris has announced his retirement. Harris, aged 32, made his mark primarily with the Brooklyn Nets, where he became known as one of the most reliable three-point shooters in the league.
Selected 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft, Harris began his professional journey with great promise following a standout college career at the University of Virginia. During his time with the Cavaliers, Harris was a two-time All-ACC member and received ACC Tournament MVP honors in 2014, capping off his tenure with an impressive run to the Sweet Sixteen.
Harris' early years in the NBA were marked by limited playing time with the Cavaliers. After two seasons, his career took a turn when he was traded to the Orlando Magic in 2016, only to be waived immediately. This setback, however, opened the door for a career-defining move to the Brooklyn Nets during the 2016 offseason.
Finding His Footing in Brooklyn
In his first season with the Nets, Harris averaged 22 minutes per game, gradually carving out a niche as a reliable role player. By his third season, Harris had emerged as a full-time starter, significantly contributing to the team's offensive firepower. He averaged 13.7 points per game and led the league in three-point shooting with a remarkable 47.4% success rate.
Harris continued to excel, and during the 2020-21 season, he once again topped the league in three-point shooting percentage while averaging 14.1 points per game. His performance that season was a crucial element in a high-powered Nets team that also featured superstars Kevin Durant and James Harden.
Despite his success, Harris faced significant challenges, including two ankle surgeries that sidelined him for much of a subsequent season. Determined to return to form, Harris rejoined the Nets and continued to be a key contributor to the team.
Brief Stint with the Detroit Pistons
In July 2023, Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons, a move that was expected to offer a fresh start. Unfortunately, a shoulder sprain limited him to just 16 games with the Pistons before he was waived at the trade deadline, signaling the twilight of his professional career.
Over his 10-year career, Harris compiled impressive statistics, retiring with a 43.5% shooting percentage from beyond the arc, the fifth highest in NBA history. His career averages include 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, with an overall field goal percentage of 47.9%.
A Lasting Legacy
Among his career highlights, Harris' victory in the Three-Point Contest during the 2019 All-Star Weekend stands out as a testament to his sharpshooting prowess. Beyond individual accolades, Harris played a vital role as a key starter on several playoff-bound Nets teams, etching his name in the franchise's history.
Although injuries and team changes impacted the latter part of his career, Harris' contributions to the game remain significant. His decision to retire at 32 marks the end of a chapter defined by perseverance, skill, and dedication to his craft.
As Joe Harris steps away from professional basketball, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and resilience that will be remembered by fans and teammates alike. His journey from the University of Virginia to an NBA standout underscores a career well-lived, filled with moments of brilliance and unwavering commitment to the sport.
The basketball community bids farewell to one of its most proficient shooters, reflecting on a career that inspired many and set a high standard in the art of three-point shooting.