After a decade-long career marked by exceptional three-point shooting and steady contributions on the court, Joe Harris has officially announced his retirement from the NBA. Known for his sharpshooting prowess, Harris steps away from professional basketball at the age of 32, leaving behind a legacy defined by precision and perseverance.
Early Career and College Success
Joe Harris' basketball journey began at the University of Virginia, where he spent four years refining his skills. His tenure with the Cavaliers was marked by significant accomplishments, including being named to the All-ACC team twice. In 2014, Harris capped his college career with a standout performance, earning MVP honors in the ACC Tournament and leading Virginia to a 30-7 record, an ACC Conference championship, and a Sweet Sixteen appearance. His collegiate success culminated in being selected 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft.
Professional Journey and Breakthrough
Harris' early years in the NBA were characterized by limited playing time with the Cavaliers. Over two seasons, he struggled to find his footing, playing sparingly off the bench. In 2016, a trade to the Orlando Magic offered a glimmer of hope, but Harris was waived the same day, casting uncertainty over his professional future.
It wasn't until the 2016 offseason when the Brooklyn Nets signed Harris that his career trajectory began to change. In his first season with the Nets, he averaged 22 minutes per game, gradually building his confidence and showcasing his shooting ability. By his third season, Harris had cemented his place in the Nets' starting lineup, averaging 13.7 points per game and leading the league in three-point shooting with an impressive 47.4%.
Peak Performance and Injuries
The pinnacle of Harris' NBA career arguably came in the 2020-21 season. Sharing the court with superstars like Kevin Durant and James Harden, Harris again led the league in three-point shooting percentage, this time with a remarkable 47.5%. His contributions were integral to the Nets' playoff aspirations, and he finished the season averaging 14.1 points per game.
However, the following seasons were marred by injuries. Harris underwent two ankle surgeries, significantly limiting his playing time to just 14 games in one season. Despite these setbacks, he made a comeback, rejoining the Nets and continuing to contribute when healthy.
Final Chapter with the Pistons and Retirement
In July 2023, Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons, marking the beginning of the final chapter of his career. A shoulder sprain limited his appearances to just 16 games for the Pistons, and he was waived at the trade deadline. Facing the physical toll of multiple injuries and a decade of professional play, Harris decided to retire from the NBA.
Throughout his career, Joe Harris was a reliable scorer and a key player on several playoff-bound Nets teams. His ability to consistently knock down three-pointers at an elite level earned him a place among the NBA's top shooters, with a career three-point shooting percentage of 43.5%, the fifth highest in league history.
Legacy and Impact
Harris' retirement at 32 marks the end of a remarkable journey from collegiate standout to professional sharpshooter. His career averages of 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, coupled with a 47.9% field goal percentage, reflect his efficiency and impact on the court. Offensively, his sharpshooting stretched defenses and created opportunities for his teammates, earning him the respect and admiration of fans and peers alike.
Joe Harris will be remembered not only for his statistical achievements but also for his resilience and dedication to the game. Winning the Three-Point Contest during the 2019 All-Star Weekend remains a highlight of his career, showcasing his elite shooting skills on a national stage.
As Joe Harris steps away from professional basketball, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence, having carved out a significant place in the annals of NBA history with his precision shooting and steady play. His journey from college star to NBA veteran serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes, demonstrating the rewards of hard work and perseverance in the face of adversity.