Stephen Jackson is a former American basketball player who had a successful 17-season career in the NBA, playing for teams like the Nets, Hawks, Pacers, and Warriors. He achieved an NBA championship win with the San Antonio Spurs in 2003. Following his basketball career, Jackson became a prominent activist for civil rights, particularly during the Black Lives Matter movement.
April 5, 1978: Birth of Stephen Jackson
Stephen Jesse Jackson was born on April 5, 1978.
1992: Jackson Matches Hardaway's Scoring Streak
Stephen Jackson's impressive scoring streak in the 2008-09 season, with three games of 30+ points and 10+ assists in five games, was the first time a Warriors player achieved this since Tim Hardaway in 1992.
1996: Stephen Jackson Earns All-American Honors and Leads High School to State Championship
In 1996, Stephen Jackson led Lincoln High School to a state championship and earned All-American honors at Oak Hill Academy. He also showcased his basketball skills as the leading scorer in the McDonald's All-American Boys Game.
1997: Stephen Jackson Begins Professional Basketball Journey
After being waived by the Phoenix Suns, Stephen Jackson began his professional basketball journey, playing for the La Crosse Bobcats in the CBA in 1997.
1997: Stephen Jackson Drafted by the Phoenix Suns
Despite academic challenges, Stephen Jackson's impressive performance in pickup games caught the attention of Phoenix Suns' president Danny Ainge, leading to him being drafted 42nd overall in the 1997 NBA draft. However, he was later waived by the team.
1998: Stephen Jackson Plays for the Sydney Kings
In 1998, Stephen Jackson played four games with the Sydney Kings in Australia's National Basketball League.
1999: Stephen Jackson Excels in Venezuelan Basketball League
During the 1999 season in Venezuela, Stephen Jackson made a significant impact, finishing third in the league in scoring with an average of 22.8 points per game. He also displayed his all-around skills with 3.9 assists and 3 steals per game, while shooting an impressive 42.6% from three-point range.
2000: Stephen Jackson's Basketball Journey Takes Him to Latin America
Continuing to hone his skills, Stephen Jackson played professionally in Venezuela and the Dominican Republic throughout the spring and summer of 2000.
2000: Stephen Jackson's NBA Debut with the New Jersey Nets
Stephen Jackson's official rookie season in the NBA began with the New Jersey Nets in the 2000-01 season. He played in 77 games, starting in 40, and averaged 8.2 points per game.
2001: Stephen Jackson Joins the San Antonio Spurs
Stephen Jackson signed with the San Antonio Spurs before the 2001-02 NBA season but faced setbacks due to injuries.
2002: Stephen Jackson Becomes Key Player for the Spurs
In the 2002-2003 NBA season, Stephen Jackson flourished as a key player for the San Antonio Spurs, averaging 11.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game.
2002: Stephen Jackson's Development with the Spurs
Stephen Jackson's dedication to improving his game and being a supportive teammate during his injury layoff in the 2001-02 season impressed the Spurs coaching staff, laying the groundwork for his breakout season the following year.
2003: Stephen Jackson's Playoff Performance Contributes to Spurs' Championship
Stephen Jackson played a crucial role in the San Antonio Spurs' championship run in the 2003 NBA Playoffs, showcasing both his scoring prowess and clutch performances. His contributions helped the Spurs secure their second NBA title.
2003: Stephen Jackson Traded to Indiana Pacers
Following his impressive season with the Atlanta Hawks, Stephen Jackson was traded to the Indiana Pacers in exchange for power forward Al Harrington before the start of the 2003-04 NBA season. He also signed a six-year, $38.3 million contract with the Pacers.
2003: Stephen Jackson Signs with Atlanta Hawks and Has Breakout Season
After winning the championship with the Spurs, Stephen Jackson signed a two-year contract with the Atlanta Hawks in 2003. He had a career-best season, averaging 18.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. His scoring prowess was on full display when he scored a career-high 42 points against the Washington Wizards on March 12.
2003: Stephen Jackson Wins NBA Championship with the San Antonio Spurs
In 2003, Stephen Jackson won his first NBA championship as a key member of the San Antonio Spurs.
November 19, 2004: Stephen Jackson Involved in "The Malice at the Palace"
On November 19, 2004, Stephen Jackson was involved in a brawl with fans during a game against the Detroit Pistons at The Palace of Auburn Hills, an incident that became known as "The Malice at the Palace." As a result, he was suspended for 30 games without pay, fined, and ordered to complete anger management classes and community service.
2004: Legal Trouble: Felony Criminal Recklessness
In 2004, Stephen Jackson faced legal issues, pleading guilty to felony criminal recklessness. This marked the beginning of several legal entanglements for Jackson.
2004: Stephen Jackson's Strong Start with the Pacers
In his first season with the Indiana Pacers (2004-05), Stephen Jackson continued his impressive form, averaging 18.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game.
2005: Pacers' Playoff Run Cut Short
Despite Stephen Jackson's strong performance, averaging 16.1 points per game and leading the team in scoring during the playoffs, the Indiana Pacers' playoff run in 2005 was cut short in the second round by the Detroit Pistons.
2005: Stephen Jackson's Scoring Prowess on Display
Stephen Jackson showcased his scoring ability throughout the 2005-06 NBA season, notably during a game against the Sacramento Kings where he scored 31 points, including four consecutive three-pointers. He tied the Kings' franchise record for most three-pointers in a quarter by an opponent. As the season progressed, he elevated his performance, averaging 20.2 points per game in April.
October 6, 2006: Stephen Jackson Involved in Strip Club Altercation
On October 6, 2006, Stephen Jackson was involved in an altercation at an Indianapolis strip club, Club Rio, where he was punched and hit by a car. Jackson, already on probation, fired his gun during the incident, leading to charges of criminal recklessness.
October 11, 2006: Jackson Charged for Strip Club Incident
On October 11, 2006, Stephen Jackson was charged with felony criminal recklessness, battery, and disorderly conduct for his involvement in the strip club incident on October 6th.
2006: Legal Issues: Misdemeanor Charges
Stephen Jackson faced additional legal problems in 2006, being charged with several misdemeanors including assault, disorderly conduct, and battery. These charges stemmed from separate incidents and added to his growing list of legal troubles.
January 17, 2007: Jackson Traded to Golden State Warriors
On January 17, 2007, the Indiana Pacers traded Stephen Jackson to the Golden State Warriors as part of an eight-player deal that included Al Harrington, Šarūnas Jasikevičius, and Josh Powell.
January 20, 2007: Strong Debut for Jackson with Warriors
Stephen Jackson had an impressive debut for the Warriors on January 20, 2007, scoring 29 points with 7 rebounds, 4 assists, and 5 steals against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
2007: Jackson Serves Suspension
In 2007, while playing for the Golden State Warriors, Stephen Jackson served a seven-game suspension due to his guilty plea for criminal recklessness in the 2006 strip club incident.
2007: Warriors Upset Mavericks in Playoffs
In the 2007 NBA Playoffs, the Golden State Warriors, led by Stephen Jackson, achieved a historic upset by defeating the Dallas Mavericks in the first round. Jackson's performance was marked by both strong play and controversy, including ejections from Games 2 and 5.
2007: Jackson Named Team Captain, Earns Player of the Week
Prior to the 2007-08 season, Stephen Jackson was named team captain for the Warriors, alongside Baron Davis and Matt Barnes. He also received the Western Conference Player of the Week award for his performance from November 26 to December 2, 2007.
2007: Jackson Achieves Scoring Feat
During the 2008-09 season, Stephen Jackson became the first NBA player since LeBron James in 2007 to record three or more games with at least 30 points and 10 assists within a five-game span.
2007: Community Service and Support in Oakland
During a 7-game suspension in the 2007-08 NBA season, Stephen Jackson dedicated his time to community service in Oakland, organizing events for children and showing support for teammate Matt Barnes during his mother's battle with cancer. This period highlighted Jackson's commitment to his community and teammates.
March 2008: Receiving the NBA Community Assist Award
Stephen Jackson's commitment to community service was recognized in March 2008 when he received the NBA Community Assist Award. His efforts, including participating in a "Silence the Violence" rally and working with John Legend to raise funds for the Show Me Campaign, earned him this honor.
April 11, 2008: Unveiling of the Stephen Jackson Basketball Court
On April 11, 2008, the Stephen Jackson Basketball Court at the Omega Boys Club in San Francisco was unveiled. This event, made possible through Jackson's collaboration with the Good Tidings Foundation, demonstrated his dedication to providing resources for youth in the community.
April 12, 2008: Stephen Jackson Day Proclamation
In further recognition of his community work, San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom declared April 12, 2008, as Stephen Jackson Day. This proclamation followed the unveiling of the Stephen Jackson Basketball Court and celebrated his impact on the Bay Area.
November 17, 2008: Jackson Signs Contract Extension with Warriors
On November 17, 2008, Stephen Jackson signed a three-year contract extension with the Golden State Warriors.
2008: Establishment of the Stephen Jackson Academy
Demonstrating his dedication to education, Stephen Jackson established the Stephen Jackson Academy of Art, Science, and Technology in Port Arthur in 2008. This initiative aimed to provide after-school programs and resources for local children, reflecting his commitment to giving back to his hometown.
2008: Jackson Ends Season with Impressive Stats
Despite his season ending early due to injury, Stephen Jackson averaged 20.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 1.5 steals, and 39.6 minutes per game in the 2008-09 season.
March 31, 2009: Jackson Undergoes Season-Ending Surgery
Stephen Jackson's 2008-09 season was cut short when he underwent surgery on March 31, 2009, to address turf toe on his left foot, which had been bothering him for two years.
November 16, 2009: Jackson Traded to Charlotte Bobcats
On November 16, 2009, Stephen Jackson was traded to the Charlotte Bobcats along with Acie Law in exchange for Raja Bell and Vladimir Radmanović.
2009: Completion of New Construction for the Stephen Jackson Academy
In 2009, construction of new facilities for the Stephen Jackson Academy was completed, marking a significant step in expanding the academy's resources and reach within the Port Arthur community.
January 12, 2010: Jackson Sets Bobcats Scoring Record
Stephen Jackson set a new franchise record for the Charlotte Bobcats by scoring 43 points against the Houston Rockets on January 12, 2010.
November 20, 2010: Jackson Records First Triple-Double in Bobcats History
On November 20, 2010, Stephen Jackson achieved the first triple-double in Charlotte Bobcats history, recording 24 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists against the Phoenix Suns.
June 23, 2011: Jackson Traded to Milwaukee Bucks in Three-Team Deal
On June 23, 2011, Stephen Jackson was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks as part of a three-team trade involving the Charlotte Bobcats and the Sacramento Kings.
December 2011: Release of Rap Mixtape "What's a Lockout?"
Stephen Jackson, under the alias Stak5, released a rap mixtape titled "What's a Lockout?" in December 2011. Hosted by DJ Scream of Maybach Music Group, the mixtape featured guest appearances from artists like Scarface, showcasing Jackson's interest in music.
2011: Bobcats Miss Playoffs, Jackson Voices Frustration
The Charlotte Bobcats failed to make the playoffs in 2011, and Stephen Jackson expressed his disappointment with the team's direction following the midseason trade of Gerald Wallace.
March 13, 2012: Jackson Traded Back to Golden State
After a challenging stint with the Milwaukee Bucks marked by injuries and conflicts with coach Scott Skiles, Stephen Jackson was traded back to the Golden State Warriors on March 13, 2012.
March 15, 2012: Jackson Traded to San Antonio Spurs
On March 15, 2012, before playing a game in his return to the Golden State Warriors, Stephen Jackson was traded to the San Antonio Spurs in exchange for Richard Jefferson, T.J. Ford, and a conditional first-round pick.
December 9, 2012: Jackson Fined for Twitter Threat
On December 9, 2012, the NBA fined Stephen Jackson $25,000 for making a public threat against Serge Ibaka on Twitter. The San Antonio Spurs organization also issued a statement condemning Jackson's actions.
2012: Expansion Plans for the Stephen Jackson Academy
Stephen Jackson expressed his intentions to further expand the Stephen Jackson Academy in 2012, aiming to secure educational accreditation and provide even more opportunities for children in Port Arthur. This commitment to ongoing development highlighted the academy's importance in his philanthropic endeavors.
April 12, 2013: Spurs Waive Jackson
The San Antonio Spurs waived Stephen Jackson on April 12, 2013.
December 10, 2013: Signing with the Los Angeles Clippers
On December 10, 2013, Stephen Jackson signed with the Los Angeles Clippers. However, his performance dwindled, averaging a career-low 1.7 points per game.
January 7, 2014: Waived by the Los Angeles Clippers
Stephen Jackson's time with the Los Angeles Clippers was short-lived. He was waived by the team on January 7, 2014 after a series of poor performances.
July 22, 2015: Retirement from the NBA
After 14 years in the NBA, Stephen Jackson announced his retirement on July 22, 2015, having earned over $68.6 million during his career.
2017: Joining the BIG3 Basketball League
Stephen Jackson joined the BIG3 basketball league in 2017, playing alongside notable players like Chauncey Billups and under the leadership of coach Charles Oakley as part of the Killer 3s.
2017: Playing for the Killer 3's
Stephen Jackson's time playing for the Killer 3's in the BIG3 league began in 2017.
January 4, 2018: Public Statement on Marijuana in the NBA
On January 4, 2018, Stephen Jackson publicly advocated for the removal of marijuana from the NBA's banned substances list, revealing that he had used marijuana throughout his career without it impacting his performance.
May 25, 2020: Advocacy Following the Death of George Floyd
Stephen Jackson became a vocal advocate for justice following the death of his close friend, George Floyd, on May 25, 2020. He delivered an impassioned speech at a protest rally, expressing his grief and calling for accountability. Jackson's public mourning and calls for change resonated widely, reflecting his commitment to fighting racial injustice.
July 7, 2020: Defense and Apology for DeSean Jackson's Anti-Semitic Post
Stephen Jackson faced criticism for initially defending Philadelphia Eagles player DeSean Jackson's anti-Semitic social media post on July 7, 2020. Although he later apologized, stating he "used the wrong words," the incident sparked controversy and condemnation from prominent figures in the basketball community.
January 6, 2021: Conversion to Islam
Stephen Jackson publicly announced his conversion to Islam on January 6, 2021. He shared his deep commitment to his faith, emphasizing the importance of prayer and his belief in Allah.
2021: Becoming Head Coach of Trilogy in the BIG3 League
In 2021, Stephen Jackson transitioned from player to coach, taking on the head coach position for Trilogy in the BIG3 league. He quickly found success, guiding the team to consecutive championships in 2021 and 2022.
2021: Coaching Trilogy in the BIG3 League
Stephen Jackson began his coaching career with Trilogy in the BIG3 league in 2021.