Joe Harris Announces Retirement After 10-Year NBA Career
Joe Harris, a notable sharpshooter who left a significant mark in the NBA with his precision from beyond the arc, has decided to retire from professional basketball after a decade-long career. Harris, known for his time with the Brooklyn Nets, departs the league with a three-point shooting percentage that places him among the most accurate shooters in the history of the sport.
A Storied Career
Drafted 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft, Harris' path to NBA success was not without its challenges. Despite limited minutes in his first two seasons with the Cavaliers, Harris persevered, showcasing his resolve and resilience. The turning point came when he was traded to the Orlando Magic in 2016, a move that saw him waived the same day. Unfazed, Harris signed with the Brooklyn Nets during the 2016 offseason—a decision that would define the peak of his professional career.
Ascension with Brooklyn Nets
In his inaugural season with the Nets, Harris played an average of 22 minutes per game. However, it was in the subsequent seasons that his true potential began to shine. Two seasons later, Harris became a full-time starter, boasting an impressive 13.7 points per game and leading the league with a stellar 47.4% from three-point range. His sharpshooting proficiency earned him the Three-Point Contest trophy during the 2019 All-Star Weekend.
The 2020-21 season saw Harris further cement his reputation as one of the league's elite shooters, once again leading the NBA in three-point shooting percentage while averaging 14.1 points per game. As part of a formidable roster featuring superstars Kevin Durant and James Harden, Harris played a pivotal role in the Nets' success, particularly during their playoff runs.
Enduring Adversity
Harris' career faced significant setbacks with two ankle surgeries that limited his playing time to just 14 games in the subsequent season. Despite these challenges, he made a valiant return to the Nets, showcasing his unwavering determination and dedication to the game. His perseverance and performance on the court made him a key starter on several playoff-bound Nets teams.
In July 2023, Harris' journey took another turn when he was traded to the Detroit Pistons. However, his time with the Pistons was short-lived, as a shoulder sprain confined him to just 16 games before being waived at the trade deadline. This sequence of events ultimately led Harris to make the decision to retire from professional basketball at the age of 32.
Legacy and Collegiate Achievements
Harris leaves the NBA with an impressive career shooting percentage of 43.5% from three-point range, the fifth highest in the history of the league. His career averages of 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, along with a 47.9% field goal percentage, underscore his consistent performance and impact on the court.
Before his professional career, Harris spent four years at the University of Virginia, where he was a standout player. He was a two-time All-ACC member and earned ACC Tournament MVP honors in 2014 after leading Virginia to an ACC Conference championship and an appearance in the Sweet Sixteen. His senior season saw the Cavaliers achieve a remarkable 30-7 record, with Harris playing a crucial role in their success.
Reflection
As Joe Harris steps away from the game, he does so leaving behind a legacy of resilience, precision, and professionalism. His journey from limited minutes in Cleveland to becoming one of the league's top shooters with the Brooklyn Nets serves as an inspiring narrative for aspiring athletes. While his threes and clutch performances will be missed on the court, Harris' legacy is sure to endure among basketball enthusiasts and analysts alike.