Jordan Clarkson is ready to embrace the bright lights of Madison Square Garden. After reaching a buyout with the Utah Jazz, the former Sixth Man of the Year officially joins the New York Knicks, and he’s already feeling the weight—and the thrill—of the city’s basketball culture.
In a recent sit-down with Kith founder Ronnie Fieg for their fall campaign, Clarkson described what it means to become a Knick.
“I just think the energy in the arena, this is a place that everybody wakes up and wants to play, wants to be a part of it,” Clarkson said. “So I think being a Knick in that sense, you have a sense of pride. You know it’s love around the city always for the Knicks.”
For Clarkson, the move represents more than just another stop in his NBA journey. It’s a chance to compete in a city that lives and breathes basketball, in a franchise with global recognition and a passionate, multicultural fanbase. As a Filipino-American, Clarkson will also draw support from the city’s sizable Filipino community, which numbers over 250,000.
Jordan Clarkson Brings Instant Offense
Clarkson brings a proven scoring punch off the bench.
Last season with Utah, the 32-year-old guard averaged 16.2 points and 3.7 assists, shooting 36.2% from three. He also led the Philippine national team in the 2023 FIBA World Cup, posting 26 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game in 36 minutes. His international experience—alongside future Knicks teammates Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart representing Team USA—adds another layer to his versatility and leadership.
“I think when you go out there, be confident and show love and really play for the city and embrace it and wear that on your skin when you’re out there on the floor and play with pride and know it’s bigger than yourself and his team,” Clarkson said. “I feel like that’s when you really are engaged and want to take it to the next level. And I’m ready for it all and super excited, and ready to get to it.”
Knicks’ Instant Chemistry
Clarkson’s arrival has already resonated with his new teammates. Hart, who played alongside Clarkson during their rookie seasons with the Lakers, emphasized the guard’s skill set and locker room presence.
“I was excited,” Hart said on “The Roommates Show” on July 17. “Great dude, gonna fit right into the culture that we have, obviously, something that can create his own shot. [Clarkson] can break down the defense, and we needed that last year. So it would be a great addition in terms of role. And also as a locker room guy.”
Brunson, meanwhile, is impressed with Clarkson’s work ethic. The Knicks’ new addition wasted no time preparing for the upcoming season once he touched down in Manhattan, training at BlackOps Basketball gym, run by former Knicks trainer Chris Brickley.
“I know him. I’m not as close with him as Josh, obviously, but I know him,” Brunson said. “I talked to him a little bit. Good dude. He surrounds himself with some good people whom I know. A great addition for us, sure.”
As training ramps up and the season approaches, all eyes will be on Clarkson to see how his energy and scoring prowess translate with the Knicks. If his statements are any indication, the Filipino-American guard is ready to rise to the moment—and the city is ready for him.
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