After a remarkable 10-year career in the NBA, Joe Harris has officially announced his retirement from professional basketball. Known for his impressive accuracy from beyond the arc, Harris leaves the court with a 43.5% shooting percentage from three-point range, the fifth highest in NBA history.
Early Career and College Success
Harris’ journey to the NBA began at the University of Virginia, where he spent four standout years. During his time with the Cavaliers, Harris was a two-time All-ACC member and earned a spot on the All-ACC Tournament team in 2014, capturing ACC Tournament MVP honors that same year. His senior season was particularly noteworthy as he helped lead Virginia to a 30-7 record, an ACC Conference championship, and an appearance in the Sweet Sixteen.
Professional Beginnings
Selected 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft, Harris saw limited minutes during his first two seasons in the league. In 2016, he was traded to the Orlando Magic but was waived the same day, leading to an uncertain phase of his career.
Finding his Stride with the Nets
The turning point came during the 2016 offseason when Harris signed with the Brooklyn Nets. Harris averaged 22 minutes per game in his first season with the team, gradually finding his role. By his third season, he had become a full-time starter, averaging 13.7 points per game and leading the league in three-point shooting with an impressive 47.4%.
Harris continued to shine in the 2020-21 season, again leading the league in three-point shooting percentage and averaging 14.1 points per game. His sharp shooting was a critical component of a Nets squad that included superstars Kevin Durant and James Harden. Harris also won the Three-Point Contest during the 2019 NBA All-Star Weekend, further cementing his reputation as one of the league’s best shooters.
Injuries and a Return
Despite his success, Harris’ career faced challenges, particularly with injuries. He underwent two ankle surgeries that limited him to just 14 games in a subsequent season. Nevertheless, his resilience saw him return to the court for the Nets, contributing to their playoff runs in multiple seasons.
The Final Chapter
In July 2023, Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons. Unfortunately, a shoulder sprain restricted him to only 16 games before he was waived at the trade deadline. Recognizing the toll his body had taken and at just 32 years old, Harris decided to retire from professional basketball.
A Legacy of Precision
Throughout his career, Joe Harris remained a pivotal player for his teams, especially noted for his three-point shooting. His career averages stand at a respectable 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, with a 47.9% field goal percentage. These numbers reflect not just a role player, but a key starter in several playoff-bound Nets teams.
Joe Harris' retirement marks the end of a noteworthy chapter in NBA history. His legacy will be remembered for his relentless pursuit of excellence and his remarkable precision from long range, inspiring future generations of shooters.