Jordan Clarkson
Jordan Clarkson is a Filipino-American professional basketball player known for his offensive skills, especially for scoring off the bench, and for his energy on the court. He has established himself as one of the league’s best Sixth Men.
Birth and Early Life
Jordan Taylor Clarkson was born on June 7, 1992, in Tampa, Florida. He grew up in San Antonio, Texas, where he developed his love and talent for basketball. His Filipino heritage comes from his maternal grandmother. His connection to the Philippines is a significant part of his identity, having played for the country’s national team.
High School and College Career
Clarkson attended Karen Wagner High School in San Antonio, where he excelled as one of the best players in Texas.
University of Tulsa: He began his college career at the University of Tulsa, playing for two seasons (2010–2012). He showed offensive potential but sought a transfer to a larger program.
University of Missouri: After serving the one-year quarantine required by NCAA rules, he played an impressive season for Missouri (2013-2014). In his only season there, he led the team in scoring and declared for the NBA Draft.
Professional NBA Career
Clarkson was selected as the 46th overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft by the Washington Wizards but was immediately traded to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Los Angeles Lakers (2014–2018)
He spent four seasons with the Lakers, where he developed from a second-round pick into a promising starting point guard. He was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 2015. With the Lakers, he showcased his offensive versatility and ability to score in volume.
Cleveland Cavaliers (2018–2019)
In 2018, Clarkson was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers. His role shifted to that of a bench leader, solidifying his role as an offensive spark plug.
Utah Jazz (2019–2023)
In 2019, he was traded to the Utah Jazz. It was with the Jazz that Clarkson reached the pinnacle of his career:
Sixth Man of the Year (2021): Clarkson won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award in the 2020-2021 season, becoming the first Jazz player to receive the honor. He was instrumental in the team’s success, which finished that season with the best record in the league.
Utah Jazz and Utah Jazz / Other Teams (2023–Present)
He remained a central piece of the Jazz, maintaining his reputation as a prolific and versatile scorer. He continued to be an offensive threat, demonstrating his ability to create his own shot.
Personal Life
Clarkson is known for his private lifestyle but is very active regarding his heritage.
Philippine National Team: His maternal grandmother is from the Philippines, which makes him eligible to represent the national team. He has become a prominent figure in Filipino basketball, representing the country in international competitions and serving as an ambassador for the sport in Asia.
Style and Culture: He is known for his bold fashion sense and his affinity for streetwear culture.
Charity: Clarkson is involved in charity initiatives, often supporting causes related to the Philippines and his hometown, San Antonio.
