Joe Harris Announces Retirement After Decade-Long NBA Career
In a move that has surprised many NBA fans, Joe Harris has announced his retirement from professional basketball, ending a notable 10-year career. Known for his sharpshooting ability, Harris leaves the game with a 43.5% shooting percentage from three-point range, the fifth highest in NBA history.
NBA Journey
Selected 33rd overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft, Harris started his professional career with the Cavaliers but found limited opportunities in his first two seasons. During his tenure in Cleveland, Harris experienced minimal playing time, which cast doubts on his NBA future.
His career took a significant turn when he was traded to the Orlando Magic in 2016, only to be waived the same day. Subsequently, Harris signed with the Brooklyn Nets during the 2016 offseason, a decision that would shape the remainder of his professional journey.
Rise with the Brooklyn Nets
With the Nets, Harris began to thrive. In his first season, he averaged 22 minutes per game. Two seasons later, Harris emerged as a full-time starter and one of the league’s premier shooters, averaging 13.7 points per game and leading the league in three-point shooting with a 47.4% success rate. The 2019 season cemented his status as one of the best shooters, earning him a win in the Three-Point Contest during the All-Star Weekend.
During the 2020-21 season, Harris continued his stellar performance, leading the league in three-point shooting percentage and averaging 14.1 points per game. This period saw him play a crucial role in a Nets team featuring superstars Kevin Durant and James Harden. Harris was a key starter on several playoff-bound Nets teams, further solidifying his reputation as a reliable and efficient shooter.
Challenges and Comeback
Despite his success, Harris faced significant challenges, including undergoing two ankle surgeries that limited him to just 14 games in one season. Demonstrating resilience, he returned to the Nets lineup, contributing whenever possible. In July 2023, Harris was traded to the Detroit Pistons, but a shoulder sprain allowed him to feature in only 16 games before he was waived at the trade deadline.
Collegiate Achievements
Before his NBA journey, Harris had an impressive collegiate career at the University of Virginia. A four-year player, he was a two-time All-ACC member and was named to the All-ACC Tournament team in 2014. That same year, he earned ACC Tournament MVP honors by leading Virginia to a 30-7 record, an ACC Conference championship, and an appearance in the Sweet Sixteen during his senior season.
Retirement
At 32 years old, Harris has decided to retire from professional basketball. His career averages of 10.3 points and three rebounds per game, coupled with a 47.9% field goal percentage, reflect his consistent performance and dedication to the sport.
Joe Harris’ retirement marks the end of an era for one of the NBA’s most efficient shooters. While his on-court presence will be missed, his contributions to the game, particularly with the Brooklyn Nets, will be remembered and celebrated by fans and peers alike.