Former Tennessee Volunteers In The NBA: Tobias Harris
By Zach Ragan
March 10, 2013; Orlando FL, USA; Orlando Magic small forward Tobias Harris (12) reacts after me made a layup against the Philadelphia 76ers during the first half at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
All Tobias Harris needed was a chance.
A chance to get some extended playing time and show that he could be a starter in the NBA.
Harris got that chance on February 21st, when he was traded by the Milwaukee Bucks to the Orlando Magic. Harris was dealt to the Magic along with Beno Udrih and Doron Lamb in exchange for J.J. Redick, Gustavo Ayon and Ish Smith.
During Harris’ time with the Bucks this season he was averaging just 4.9 points in 11.6 minutes of action a game. Harris was being used mainly as a reserve and some nights he wouldn’t see any game action.
Since being traded to the Magic Harris has averaged 14.6 points in 31.9 minutes a game.
The 6’8″ forward has been an integral part of the Magic since being obtained from the Bucks. Harris is starting at power forward and contributing on a nightly basis.
On Friday night Harris played a career high 43 minutes in a 97-89 loss against the Thunder. Harris scored 10 points and matched his career high in rebounds with 15.
The New York native is an extremely versatile player. He’s big enough to play inside, but quick enough to create his own shot off the dribble.
The former Tennessee Volunteer was a highly recruited 5-star forward coming out of high school. Harris chose the the Volunteers over the Kentucky Wildcats, Louisville Cardinals and Syracuse Orange among others.
During Harris’ one season in Knoxville the forward averaged 15.3 points and 7.3 rebounds a game while shooting 46% from the field.
After his freshmen season with the Vols, Harris declared for the NBA draft. The Charlotte Bobcats selected Harris with the 19th overall selection in 2011. The Bobcats immediately traded the rights to Harris to the Milwaukee Bucks.
Harris spent his rookie season with the Bucks much as he had this season — in a limited role. Harris averaged just 5.0 points and 2.4 rebounds a game.
Tobias Harris is finally getting his chance to show what he can do as a starter in the NBA and he’s making the most of his chance.
The future is bright for the former Vol, there’s no debating that.