Tobias Harris, born on July 15, 1992, in Islip, New York, is an American professional basketball player who plays as a forward for the Detroit Pistons in the NBA. Standing 6 feet 8 inches tall and weighing 226 pounds, Harris has had a diverse career, playing for teams including the Milwaukee Bucks, Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Clippers, and Philadelphia 76ers before returning to the Pistons in 2024.
Career Highlights:
- High School Achievements: Harris attended Half Hollow Hills High School West and later Long Island Lutheran, earning the 2010 Mr. New York Basketball award and being named a McDonald’s All-American.
- College Performance: During his freshman year at the University of Tennessee, Harris averaged 15.3 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, earning second-team All-SEC honors.
- Professional Career: Drafted 19th overall in the 2011 NBA Draft by the Charlotte Bobcats (now Hornets), Harris was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks. He has since played for several teams, including the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Clippers, and Philadelphia 76ers. In July 2024, Harris signed a two-year, $52 million contract to return to the Detroit Pistons.
2024–2025 Season Performance:
Since the All-Star break, Harris has been delivering consistent performances, averaging 16.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.1 steals per game over 11 contests, playing 33.5 minutes per game.
Philanthropy and Personal Life:
Harris is deeply committed to community service, having received the NBA Community Service Award in 2016 and 2021. He founded the “Tobias Harris School of Mentoring Program,” partnered with organizations to assist with the college recruiting process, and donated over $2 million through his charitable fund to support education.
Harris also contributed $1 million to nine charities in the Philadelphia area and is known for his Christian faith and public expressions of spirituality.
Recent Contributions:
In a recent game against the New Orleans Pelicans, Harris credited the Pistons’ approach for their victory, highlighting his leadership and experience in guiding the team to success.
Harris’s blend of experience, leadership, and community involvement continues to make him a valuable asset to the Detroit Pistons and a respected figure in the NBA.