After a decade-long career in the NBA, Joe Harris has officially announced his retirement from professional basketball. The 32-year-old sharpshooter leaves behind an impressive legacy, particularly noted for his exceptional three-point shooting ability.
A Remarkable Journey
Harris’ professional career commenced when he was selected 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft. The University of Virginia alumnus spent four years in college, where he distinguished himself as a two-time All-ACC member. His performances peaked in 2014 when he was named to the All-ACC Tournament team and earned ACC Tournament MVP honors, playing a pivotal role in leading Virginia to a 30-7 record, an ACC Conference championship, and an appearance in the Sweet Sixteen during his senior season.
However, Harris’ early years in the NBA did not reflect his collegiate success. In his first two seasons with the Cavaliers, he experienced limited minutes on the court. In 2016, he was traded to the Orlando Magic but was waived the same day, casting uncertainties on his professional future.
Rejuvenation with the Nets
The tides turned for Harris when he signed with the Brooklyn Nets during the 2016 offseason. Initially, he averaged 22 minutes per game in his first season with the team. But it was in the subsequent seasons that Harris truly found his footing. By his third season with the Nets, he had cemented his place as a full-time starter, averaging 13.7 points per game and leading the league in three-point shooting with a stellar 47.4%.
Harris’ prowess from beyond the arc became a defining feature of his career. Across his NBA tenure, he maintained a 43.5% three-point shooting percentage, ranking fifth highest in league history. His best performance came in the 2020-21 season when he led the league in three-point shooting percentage and averaged 14.1 points per game. This was the same season he played alongside superstars Kevin Durant and James Harden, making the Nets a formidable team in the playoffs.
Challenges and Resilience
Despite his achievements, Harris faced several setbacks. He underwent two ankle surgeries which significantly limited his playtime, restricting him to just 14 games in a subsequent season. Nonetheless, demonstrating resilience, Harris returned to the Nets and continued to contribute to the team’s successes.
In July 2023, Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons. Unfortunately, a shoulder sprain limited him to just 16 games with the Pistons before he was waived at the trade deadline. While his stint with the Pistons was brief and marred by injury, it did not overshadow his overall contributions to the game.
A Career Highlight
One of the most memorable moments in Harris’ career came during All-Star Weekend in 2019, when he won the prestigious Three-Point Contest. This accolade was a testament to his elite shooting skills and solidified his reputation as one of the best shooters in the league.
Legacy and Retirement
Joe Harris concludes his NBA career with commendable averages of 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, and an impressive 47.9% field goal percentage. His consistency and ability to perform in crucial moments made him a key starter on several playoff-bound Nets teams.
Announcing his retirement at the age of 32, Harris leaves the court with a legacy defined by perseverance, skill, and unwavering dedication. While his professional journey had its ups and downs, his impact on teammates, fans, and the broader basketball community remains indelible.