Joe Harris Retires from the NBA after Decade-Long Career
In a significant development for basketball fans, Joe Harris has announced his retirement from the NBA after a commendable 10-year journey in professional basketball. Harris, who spent the majority of his career with the Brooklyn Nets, leaves behind a legacy of remarkable three-point shooting and consistent performance.
From Virginia to the NBA
Harris' journey began at the University of Virginia, where he played for four years and earned accolades that hinted at his future success. As a two-time All-ACC member, Harris was instrumental in leading Virginia to a 30-7 record during his senior season. His contributions helped secure an ACC Conference championship and a spot in the Sweet Sixteen. Such performances earned him a place on the All-ACC Tournament team in 2014, where he was also named the ACC Tournament MVP.
Selected 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft, Harris' initial years in the NBA were marked by limited playing time. However, his potential was evident to those who closely followed his career.
Finding a Home with the Nets
After being traded to the Orlando Magic in 2016 and subsequently waived, Harris found a new home with the Brooklyn Nets during the 2016 offseason. His first season with the Nets saw him averaging 22 minutes per game, a clear increase from his time with the Cavaliers.
Harris' breakthrough came two seasons later when he became a full-time starter. Averaging 13.7 points per game, he led the league in three-point shooting with an impressive 47.4%. This performance solidified Harris as one of the premier shooters in the NBA.
Peak Performance and Challenges
The 2020-21 season was arguably Harris' best. He once again led the league in three-point shooting percentage and averaged 14.1 points per game. His contributions were crucial to a Nets team that featured superstars like Kevin Durant and James Harden, making them a formidable playoff contender.
However, Harris' career was not without its challenges. He underwent two ankle surgeries that limited him to just 14 games in a subsequent season. Despite these setbacks, Harris made a commendable return to the Nets, showcasing his resilience and dedication to the sport.
Final Chapter with the Pistons
In July 2023, Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons. Unfortunately, a shoulder sprain limited him to just 16 games with the Pistons before he was waived at the trade deadline. The series of injuries eventually led Harris to make the difficult decision to retire from professional basketball at the age of 32.
Throughout his career, Harris maintained a 43.5% shooting percentage from three-point range, the fifth-highest in NBA history. His career averages of 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, with a 47.9% field goal percentage, reflect his consistent performance on the court.
Moreover, Harris' stellar performance during the 2019 All-Star Weekend, where he won the Three-Point Contest, remains a highlight that fans will remember fondly.
Legacy and Impact
Despite the abrupt end to his career, Harris' impact on the game, particularly his prowess from beyond the arc, is undeniable. He was a key starter on several playoff-bound Nets teams and played a crucial role in elevating the franchise's competitive edge during his tenure.
As Joe Harris steps away from professional basketball, his legacy as one of the most proficient three-point shooters in NBA history remains intact. His journey from Virginia to the NBA is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and skill.
Fans and fellow players alike will surely miss Harris' presence on the court, but his contributions to the game of basketball will be remembered for years to come.