Jordan Clarkson has become one of the NBA’s most recognizable and dynamic scorers. Now playing for the New York Knicks, Clarkson’s journey from a promising young talent to seasoned veteran reflects dedication, multicultural roots, and consistent offensive production.
Early Life & Parents: A Multicultural NBA Star
Jordan Taylor Clarkson was born on June 7, 1992, in Tampa, Florida, to Mike Clarkson and Annette Tullao Davis. His father, Mike, is African-American, while his mother, Annette, is Filipina American, giving Clarkson deep Filipino heritage. His maternal grandmother was born in Bacolor, Pampanga, Philippines, which contributes to his dual American-Filipino nationality. Both of his parents served in the United States Air Force, and after their divorce when Clarkson was young, his father later remarried. Clarkson grew up in a multicultural environment, eventually moving to San Antonio, Texas, where he blossomed as a high school basketball standout.
This diverse background not only shaped his personal identity but later helped him connect with basketball fans across multiple countries, especially in the Philippines.
NBA Career & Points Per Game: Scoring Consistency
Since entering the NBA in 2014, Clarkson has been known for his scoring ability:
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NBA Rookie Year (2014-15): After being selected 46th overall in the 2014 NBA Draft by the Washington Wizards and immediately traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, Clarkson earned a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team thanks to his offensive contributions.
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Career Scoring: Throughout his career with teams like the Lakers, Cavaliers, and Jazz, Clarkson consistently averaged strong point totals, often reaching double figures and becoming one of the most effective bench scorers in the league.
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2024-25 Season (with Utah Jazz): Clarkson posted 16.2 points per game, along with 3.2 rebounds and 3.7 assists, before moving to the Knicks.
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2025-26 Knicks Performance: In the current season with the Knicks, Clarkson’s scoring has varied, with around 9.9 points per game in the regular season as he adjusts to a new role in New York’s rotation.
Clarkson’s scoring versatility—capable of attacking the rim, pulling up from mid-range, or knocking down triples—has made him a reliable option off the bench or as a secondary playmaker.
Knicks Contract: Veteran Presence in New York
In the 2025 off-season, the New York Knicks officially signed Jordan Clarkson after he agreed to a buyout with the Utah Jazz. The veteran guard inked a one-year, $3.6 million deal with New York, bringing experience and bench scoring to a roster seeking depth and offensive punch.
Clarkson’s addition was viewed as a strategic move to improve the Knicks’ second unit and provide veteran leadership around rising stars like Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns. A former NBA Sixth Man of the Year (2021), Clarkson’s track record of instant scoring off the bench is one reason New York pursued him despite his age and evolving role.
Rookie Journey: From Draft Night to NBA Contributor
Clarkson’s NBA journey began when he was picked 46th overall in the 2014 NBA Draft by the Washington Wizards and then traded to the Los Angeles Lakers on draft night. Despite playing only parts of his rookie season with limited minutes, Clarkson made a strong impression, averaging noteworthy numbers and earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team.
His successful rookie year laid the foundation for a decade-long career in which he became one of the league’s most trusted scoring options off the bench. Along the way, Clarkson also won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award in 2021, highlighting his ability to shift momentum and provide instant offense in crucial moments.
Conclusion: Legacy & Impact
Jordan Clarkson’s career has been defined by his consistent scoring, adaptability, and cultural significance as one of the NBA’s prominent Filipino-American athletes. From his early life shaped by a diverse family background to his impactful role as a veteran scorer for the Knicks, Clarkson’s journey exemplifies how talent and perseverance can propel a second-round pick into an enduring NBA presence.
Whether lighting up the scoreboard, mentoring young players, or connecting with fans worldwide through his heritage, Clarkson remains a compelling figure in today’s NBA landscape.
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