After a decade marked by sharpshooting and perseverance, Joe Harris has announced his retirement from the NBA at the age of 32. Over his 10-year career, Harris carved a niche as one of the league’s most reliable three-point shooters and an invaluable team player.
The Start of a Journey
Harris's basketball journey began at the University of Virginia, where he distinguished himself as a two-time All-ACC member. In his senior season, he played a pivotal role in leading the Cavaliers to a 30-7 record, an ACC Conference championship, and an appearance in the Sweet Sixteen. His performances earned him a spot on the All-ACC Tournament team and the ACC Tournament MVP honors in 2014. This stellar college career set the stage for his entry into the NBA.
Early NBA Struggles and Breakthrough
In the 2014 NBA Draft, the Cleveland Cavaliers selected Harris 33rd overall. However, his early years in the NBA saw limited opportunities on the court. Playing sporadic minutes in his first two seasons with the Cavaliers, Harris struggled to find his place in the league. A trade to the Orlando Magic in 2016 resulted in another setback as he was waived the same day.
Making his Mark with the Nets
Harris's fortunes changed when he signed with the Brooklyn Nets during the 2016 offseason. Initially averaging 22 minutes per game, Harris quickly proved his worth. Within two seasons, 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% success rate.
The 2020-21 season was a hallmark for Harris, where he not only led the league again in three-point shooting percentage but also averaged 14.1 points per game. As part of a star-studded Nets lineup that included Kevin Durant and James Harden, Harris's contributions were critical to the team’s offensive prowess. His sharpshooting earned him a memorable victory in the Three-Point Contest during the 2019 All-Star Weekend.
Injuries and Resurgence
Despite his successes, Harris's career was not without challenges. He underwent two ankle surgeries that limited him to just 14 games in a subsequent season. However, showcasing resilience, he returned to the Nets and resumed his role as a key starter on several playoff-bound teams.
The latter part of his career saw another twist when Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons in July 2023. Unfortunately, a shoulder sprain limited him to only 16 games before being waived at the trade deadline.
A Remarkable Legacy
Joe Harris retires with a remarkable 43.5% shooting percentage from three-point range, ranking fifth in NBA history. His career averages of 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, along with a 47.9% field goal percentage, reflect his consistent performance and accuracy. Beyond the numbers, Harris's journey exemplifies hard work, resilience, and a dedication to refining his craft.
As Harris steps away from professional basketball, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence from beyond the arc, an unwavering commitment to his teams, and countless moments that endeared him to fans across the league. His decision to retire at 32 closes a chapter on a prolific career, one that serves as an inspiration to both current and aspiring athletes.