Clarkson finds rhythm in New York
NEW YORK, United States — Filipino-American guard Jordan Clarkson was ultra-aggressive on defense Saturday night (Sunday, Manila time) but fouled out in just 18 minutes off the bench as the New York Knicks crushed the Brooklyn Nets, 134-98, at Madison Square Garden.
Before his early exit, Clarkson contributed 11 points on 5-of-8 shooting, along with two rebounds, three assists, and two steals, helping power the Knicks to their sixth straight home victory to start the season.
Viral ‘stats sheet’ moment
Despite the lopsided win, one of the night’s most memorable moments came on the bench. After fouling out, a visibly frustrated Clarkson was caught on camera crumpling his stat sheet, while teammate Josh Hart doubled over in laughter beside him — a lighthearted exchange that quickly went viral on social media.
“Yeah, he’s always on me,” Clarkson said of Hart, grinning when asked about the moment. “But nah, he made me laugh. I was kind of upset, but he got me right.”
The clip circulated widely on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, highlighting Clarkson’s competitive spirit — and sense of humor — as he continues to make an impact in the Knicks’ second unit.
Jordan Clarkson crumbled up Josh Hart’s stat sheet after fouling out ???? pic.twitter.com/ErandwHTtd
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) November 10, 2025
Steady production in November
Clarkson has quietly found his rhythm after a feeling-out period in his first season in New York. Over his last several games, he’s averaged 12.0 points, shooting an efficient 57.6% from the field and 41.2% from three-point range in November — proof of his growing comfort in head coach Mike Brown’s system.
He was one of six Knicks players in double figures against Brooklyn. Karl-Anthony Towns dominated with 28 points and 12 rebounds, while Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby added 19 points apiece. Mikal Bridges chipped in 16, and Hart matched Clarkson’s 11 as the Knicks improved to 6-0 at Madison Square Garden and notched their fourth straight victory.
Knicks host Grizzlies amid Ja Morant trade buzz
The Knicks next host the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday (Wednesday, Manila time), a game that comes amid growing league chatter surrounding Ja Morant’s future in Memphis.
Tension reportedly flared between Morant and head coach Tuomas Iisalo earlier this month after a halftime confrontation over Morant’s effort and focus. Though the star guard returned from a one-game suspension, multiple reports indicate that the rift has not fully healed.
Still, league insiders say the Grizzlies are not actively shopping Morant. According to The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski, the Minnesota Timberwolves have “checked in” with Memphis to gauge potential interest.
“They’re testing the waters a little bit,” Krawczynski told SiriusXM NBA Radio. “I don’t get the sense that there’s anything real close, but if the Wolves are still treading water by late December, they might take a harder look.”
Trade logistics remain challenging: operating above the NBA’s first tax apron, the Timberwolves can’t send out more salary than they take back, making a deal for Morant — who earns $39.5 million this season — difficult.
Spoelstra’s Heat lead in Morant odds
According to online sportsbook BetUS, the Miami Heat, coached by Filipino-American Erik Spoelstra, are the favorites (+200) to land Morant if he is traded before the February 5 deadline.
The Sacramento Kings, where former Gilas Pilipinas star Jimmy Alapag serves as player development coach for the team’s young guards, are second at +300, tied with the Houston Rockets.
--
Alder Almo is a former senior sportswriter for Philstar.com and NBA.com Philippines. He is now based in Jersey City, New Jersey, and writes for US-based publication Heavy.com.
- Latest
- Trending
