Joe Harris, a distinguished sharpshooter, has announced his retirement from the NBA after a commendable 10-year career. Harris, known for his lethal three-point accuracy, spent the majority of his professional journey with the Brooklyn Nets, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise.
A Storied Career with the Nets
Harris departs the league with a 43.5% shooting percentage from beyond the arc, positioning him fifth all-time in NBA history in this category. His career statistics include averages of 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, while boasting an impressive 47.9% field goal percentage overall. His remarkable consistency from deep has been a cornerstone of his game, earning him respect and recognition across the league.
Selected 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft, Harris' journey to stardom was anything but straightforward. After four years of honing his skills at the University of Virginia, where he was a two-time All-ACC member, he showcased his potential. Notably, Harris was named to the All-ACC Tournament team in 2014 and earned the ACC Tournament MVP honors the same year. His leadership was instrumental in guiding Virginia to a 30-7 record, an ACC Conference championship, and an appearance in the Sweet Sixteen during his senior season.
Early Professional Challenges
Harris' initial two NBA seasons with the Cavaliers saw limited playing time, a common challenge for many young prospects. In 2016, he was traded to the Orlando Magic but was waived the same day, leaving his professional future uncertain. However, Harris' resilience shone through when he signed with the Brooklyn Nets during the 2016 offseason.
In his first season with the Nets, Harris averaged 22 minutes per game, showcasing glimpses of his potential as a reliable role player. It was two seasons later that Harris truly emerged as a full-time starter, putting up 13.7 points per game and leading the league in three-point shooting with a remarkable 47.4%.
Peak Performance and Injuries
The 2020-21 season marked the peak of Harris' performance as he once again led the league in three-point shooting percentage, averaging 14.1 points per game. His prowess from downtown made him a perfect fit for the star-studded Nets team alongside Kevin Durant and James Harden. Harris' contributions were crucial for a team with championship aspirations.
However, Harris' career faced setbacks due to injuries. He underwent two ankle surgeries, which significantly limited his playing time to just 14 games in a subsequent season. Despite the physical challenges, Harris made a valiant return to the Nets, demonstrating his unwavering determination and passion for the game.
Detroit and the Decision to Retire
In July 2023, Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons, aiming for a fresh start. Unfortunately, a shoulder sprain restricted him to just 16 games with the Pistons before he was waived at the trade deadline. These consistent injury troubles played a role in Harris' decision to step away from professional basketball.
Legacy of a Three-Point Specialist
Harris' career is also highlighted by his victory in the Three-Point Contest during the 2019 All-Star Weekend, a testament to his elite shooting ability. At 32 years old, Harris decided to retire from professional basketball, reflecting on a career that saw him rise from a second-round draft pick to one of the most efficient three-point shooters in NBA history.
Harris was not just a remarkable shooter but also a key starter on several playoff-bound Nets teams. His journey from collegiate success to professional prominence exemplifies perseverance and dedication, leaving fans with lasting memories of his sharp-shooting prowess.