Joe Harris has announced his retirement from the NBA, capping off a memorable 10-year career. Known for his sharpshooting and consistency on the court, Harris leaves behind a legacy that highlights his contributions to the teams he played for, most notably the Brooklyn Nets.
Starting his professional journey with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Harris was the 33rd overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft. Despite experiencing limited minutes in his first two seasons, Harris' potential was evident. However, his path hit a detour when he was traded to the Orlando Magic in 2016, only to be waived the same day. This setback did not deter Harris; it set the stage for his significant leap forward.
Brooklyn Nets Era
The Brooklyn Nets took a chance on Harris by signing him during the 2016 offseason. It was a decision that paid dividends. In his first season with the Nets, Harris averaged 22 minutes per game, establishing himself as a reliable contributor. By his third season, he had cemented his place as a full-time starter, averaging 13.7 points per game and leading the league with a remarkable 47.4% three-point shooting percentage.
Harris' standout skill from beyond the arc became his trademark. Over his career, he achieved a 43.5% shooting percentage from three-point range, which ranks him fifth in NBA history. His excellence was further recognized when he won the Three-Point Contest during the 2019 All-Star Weekend.
Peak and Challenges
The pinnacle of Harris' career came during the 2020-21 season. Teaming up with superstars Kevin Durant and James Harden, Harris once again led the league in three-point shooting percentage, scoring an average of 14.1 points per game. The epic trio propelled the Nets into a formidable playoff team, with Harris playing a key role as a starter.
However, his journey was not devoid of challenges. Harris underwent two ankle surgeries that significantly limited his playtime, reducing his appearances to just 14 games in one season. Determined and resilient, Harris made a return to the Nets, exemplifying his perseverance and dedication to the sport.
Final Chapter
The winding down of Harris' career saw him traded to the Detroit Pistons in July 2023. A shoulder sprain limited his contributions to the Pistons, where he played in only 16 games before being waived at the trade deadline. This marked the end of his active NBA career, and at 32 years old, Harris made the decision to retire from professional basketball.
Harris' career averages include 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, with a commendable 47.9% field goal percentage. These statistics reflect his role as a valuable player who consistently delivered when it mattered most.
College Foundation
Harris' professional achievements are rooted in his stellar college career at the University of Virginia. He spent four years playing for the Cavaliers, earning two-time All-ACC honors and making the All-ACC Tournament team in 2014. As a senior, he led his team to a 30-7 record, an ACC Conference championship, and an appearance in the Sweet Sixteen. His performance earned him the ACC Tournament MVP honor, setting the stage for his NBA journey.
Legacy and Impact
Joe Harris leaves an indelible mark on the NBA, especially with the Brooklyn Nets. His shooting prowess, professional resilience, and dedication to the game make him a player remembered not just for his statistics, but for the clutch performances and leadership he demonstrated. Being a key starter on several playoff-bound Nets teams, his influence extended beyond numbers, contributing to the culture and success of the team.
As Harris steps away from the court, he does so with the respect and admiration of fans, teammates, and opponents alike, proving that his journey in professional basketball has been nothing short of impactful and inspiring.