Stephen Jackson is a former basketball player who played 14 seasons in the NBA. He is also a social justice advocate vocal about racial inequality and police brutality. He is best known for his role in the 2003 NBA championship with the San Antonio Spurs and his friendship with George Floyd, whose death sparked a global movement for change. Here are some facts about his life, career, and activism.

Stephen Jackson: Early Life

He grew up in a single-parent household with his mother, Judyette, who worked two jobs to support him and his half-brother, Donald Buckner. He started playing basketball early and showed great talent and passion. He studied at Lincoln High School in Port Arthur, Texas, where he guided his squad to a state championship in his junior year. He then transferred to Oak Hill Academy in Virginia, where he earned All-American honors in 1996.

Basketball Career

He attended Butler County Community College in Kansas for one semester but did not play basketball there. Instead, He pursued a professional career and entered the 1997 NBA draft. The Suns selected him in the second round, but he did not play for them. He spent the next few years playing in various leagues worldwide, such as Australia, Venezuela, and the Dominican Republic.

Jackson finally made his NBA debut in 2000 with the New Jersey Nets. He then played for several teams, including the San Antonio Spurs, Atlanta Hawks, Indiana Pacers, Golden State Warriors, Charlotte Bobcats, Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Clippers, and San Antonio Spurs again. In 2003, He won a championship with the Spurs and was a key contributor to their success. He was also known for his fiery personality and involvement in controversies.

Jackson retired from basketball in 2015 after 14 seasons in the NBA. He finished his career with 12,976 points, 3,328 rebounds, and 2,634 assists. He is regarded as one of his generation's most versatile and clutch players.

Social Justice Activism

Jackson has outspoken supporter of social justice and racial equality since his retirement from basketball. He has used his platform to raise awareness and demand accountability for the victims of police brutality and systemic racism.

Jackson’s activism gained more attention and recognition after the death of George Floyd on May 25, 2020. Jackson and Floyd were childhood friends who grew up together in Houston. They called each other “twins” because of their resemblance. Jackson was devastated by Floyd’s death and vowed to fight for justice for himself and his family.

Jackson has also used his podcast “All The Smoke” with former NBA player Matt Barnes to discuss social issues and interview influential figures such as Barack Obama, Kamala Harris, Ice Cube, Snoop Dogg, and Jamie Foxx. He has also collaborated with other athletes and celebrities to promote positive change and empowerment in the black community.

Conclusion

Stephen Jackson is a retired NBA player who has become a prominent activist for social justice and racial equality. He is best known for his role in the 2003 NBA championship with the San Antonio Spurs and his friendship with George Floyd, whose death sparked a global movement for change. He has used his platform to raise awareness and demand accountability for the victims of police brutality and systemic racism. He has also supported Floyd’s family financially and emotionally throughout their ordeal.