Jordan Clarkson is more than just a name in the NBA; he's a dynamic player with a story worth knowing. Did you know that Clarkson, born in Tampa, Florida, has Filipino roots through his mother? This connection has made him a beloved figure in the Philippines, where basketball is a national passion. Standing at 6'4", Clarkson's journey from college basketball at the University of Missouri to becoming the NBA's Sixth Man of the Year in 2021 is nothing short of inspiring. But there's more to this athlete than his on-court skills. From his fashion sense to his charitable efforts, Clarkson's impact reaches beyond basketball. Ready to learn some intriguing facts about Jordan Clarkson? Let's get started!
Early Life and Background
Jordan Clarkson, a name synonymous with basketball excellence, has an intriguing journey that began long before he hit the NBA courts. Here are some fascinating facts about his early life and background.
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Born in Tampa, Florida
Jordan Clarkson was born on June 7, 1992, in Tampa, Florida. His family moved to San Antonio, Texas, where he spent most of his childhood. -
Filipino Heritage
Clarkson's mother, Annette Davis, is of Filipino descent. This makes him eligible to play for the Philippine national team, a fact that has endeared him to many Filipino basketball fans. -
High School Star
He attended Karen Wagner High School in San Antonio. There, he quickly made a name for himself as a standout player, averaging 18.9 points per game in his senior year.
College Career
Before making it to the NBA, Clarkson honed his skills in college, where he continued to impress scouts and fans alike.
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University of Tulsa
Clarkson started his college career at the University of Tulsa. He played two seasons there, earning Conference USA All-Freshman Team honors. -
Transfer to Missouri
After two years at Tulsa, Clarkson transferred to the University of Missouri. He had to sit out one season due to NCAA transfer rules but made a significant impact once he started playing. -
Impressive Stats
During his only season playing for Missouri, Clarkson averaged 17.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. His performance earned him a spot on the All-SEC Second Team.
NBA Journey
Clarkson's NBA journey has been nothing short of remarkable, filled with ups and downs that have shaped him into the player he is today.
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Drafted by the Washington Wizards
In the 2014 NBA Draft, Clarkson was selected 46th overall by the Washington Wizards. However, he was quickly traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. -
Rookie Season Highlights
Clarkson had an impressive rookie season with the Lakers, earning NBA All-Rookie First Team honors. He averaged 11.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game. -
Trade to the Cleveland Cavaliers
In 2018, Clarkson was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers. He played a crucial role in helping the team reach the NBA Finals that year.
Current Success with the Utah Jazz
Clarkson's career took another leap forward when he joined the Utah Jazz, where he has become a key player.
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Sixth Man of the Year
In the 2020-2021 NBA season, Clarkson was named the NBA Sixth Man of the Year. He averaged 18.4 points per game off the bench, providing a significant scoring boost for the Jazz. -
Career-High Points
On May 10, 2021, Clarkson scored a career-high 41 points in a game against the Golden State Warriors. His performance included five three-pointers and seven rebounds.
Off the Court
Jordan Clarkson is not just a basketball player; he has a life off the court that is equally interesting.
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Fashion Enthusiast
Clarkson has a keen interest in fashion. He often makes headlines for his unique and stylish outfits, both on and off the court. -
Philanthropy
Clarkson is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He has been involved in various charitable activities, including donating to relief efforts in the Philippines and supporting youth basketball programs.
Jordan Clarkson: A Remarkable Journey
Jordan Clarkson's journey from a second-round pick to a key player in the NBA is nothing short of inspiring. His Filipino heritage has made him a beloved figure in the Philippines, while his skills on the court have earned him respect worldwide. Clarkson's ability to adapt, whether as a starter or a sixth man, showcases his versatility and dedication. Off the court, his fashion sense and community involvement highlight his multifaceted personality. From his early days in San Antonio to his current role with the Utah Jazz, Clarkson's story is a testament to hard work and perseverance. As he continues to evolve, fans can expect even more exciting chapters in his career. Whether you're a basketball enthusiast or just love a good success story, Jordan Clarkson's journey is one to watch.
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