UNC Basketball: Harrison Barnes reaches milestone in NBA

A former University of North Carolina Tar Heels standout has reached a milestone for the first time in his NBA career

Harrison Barnes did something on Friday night that he’s never done in his career in the NBA.

The former UNC star officially eclipsed the 1,000-point mark on the season, the first time he’s done that in his five-year career.

He did it in just his 50th game, tying a Dallas Mavericks franchise record set by Jay Vincent:

Fewest Games to Reach 1000 Points with Mavs – All-Time

Jay Vincent – 50
Harrison Barnes – 50
Monta Ellis – 52#mffl

— Matt Benson (@mbenson6) February 4, 2017

Barnes entered the NBA at age 20, being drafted in the first round of the 2012 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors. He spent four seasons in the Bay Area, helping the Warriors win a title back in 2015.

But Barnes never really stood out and was replaced in the starting lineup. He then turned into a key role player for the Warriors.

In 2016, Barnes decided it was time to part ways.

He signed a four-year deal worth $94 million with the Mavericks in the offseason, getting his first max deal.

Since joining the Mavericks, Barnes’ role has increased dramatically. He became a starter and earned more minutes.

In 49 games, Barnes is averaging a career-high 20.4 points per game. He’s also averaging 5.4 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game.

With the Mavericks likely entering a rebuild soon, the franchise might start building around Barnes.

One thing is for sure, if he keeps his hot play up in the future he could find himself as an NBA All-Star in the near future.