Jordan Clarkson has officially joined the New York Knicks after a buyout with the Utah Jazz, stepping into the intense atmosphere of Madison Square Garden with enthusiasm and pride. The guard is embracing the challenge of playing in a city deeply passionate about basketball, eager to bring his skills and energy to the Knicks’ lineup.
Clarkson Reflects on the Meaning of Joining the Knicks
In a conversation with Ronnie Fieg, founder of Kith, Clarkson shared what it feels like to become part of the Knicks organization. He highlighted the strong energy of Madison Square Garden, emphasizing that the arena is a place where players want to showcase their talents every day. Clarkson expressed a sense of pride tied to being a Knick, recognizing the unwavering love the city has for its team.
“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.”
Beyond basketball, Clarkson’s arrival carries special significance due to his Filipino–American heritage. New York City’s large Filipino community, numbering more than 250,000, will be rallying behind him, adding to the cultural connection between the player and his fans.
A Proven Scorer Ready to Deliver Off the Bench
Clarkson arrives with a reputation as an impactful scorer who can provide instant offense. During the previous season with Utah, he posted averages of 16.2 points and 3.7 assists per game, including a respectable 36.2% shooting from beyond the arc. His leadership extended beyond the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA, as he led the Philippine national team at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, averaging 26 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists while playing significant minutes.
His international experience adds versatility to the Knicks roster, especially with teammates like Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart representing Team USA in the same tournament. Clarkson is motivated by the responsibility and pride of playing in New York and wants to channel that into his on-court performance.
“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 explained.
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.”
Immediate Impact and Strong Team Chemistry
Clarkson’s transition to the Knicks has been warmly received by his teammates, who recognize both his talent and character. Josh Hart, who shared rookie years with Clarkson on the Lakers, praised his ability to create his own shot and break down defenses—skills that the Knicks sorely needed last season. Hart also pointed to Clarkson’s positive influence in the locker room.
“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.”
—Josh Hart, Knicks guard
Jalen Brunson echoed admiration for Clarkson’s work ethic and character. Shortly after arriving in Manhattan, Clarkson committed to intense training at BlackOps Basketball, a gym managed by former Knicks trainer Chris Brickley. Brunson noted that Clarkson surrounds himself with good people, further strengthening his fit within the team’s culture.
“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.”
Setting the Stage for a Promising Knicks Season
As training intensifies and the new NBA season approaches, the spotlight will be on Clarkson to see how his energy and scoring ability enhance the Knicks’ performance. His connection with the city, combined with his competitive drive, suggests he is poised to make a significant impact at Madison Square Garden. Fans and teammates alike are optimistic that Clarkson’s arrival will help elevate the team’s success and invigorate the vibrant New York basketball scene.