Robyn Dixon

LOS ANGELES – Starting at Wednesday night’s home game vs. the Washington Wizards, LA Clippers guard Reggie Jackson will thank fans and encourage their continued support by sharing with them his favorite pre-game snack, peanut butter and jelly. The Clippers will throw packets of peanut butter and jelly into the stands when fans cheer on “RE-GGIE” and the team, and the more Clipper Nation cheers, the more the team will distribute.

“This fan base gives my teammates and me the confidence to dig deep and keep going. They support and believe in me, and knowing that they have my back lets me focus on the game I love. Thank you Clipper Nation, for reminding me why I play. It’s for you,” said Jackson.

At all remaining home games this season, Jackson and the Clippers will toss to fans peanut butter and jelly branded with Jackson’s image and a thank you message. The snack packets are available exclusively at Clippers home games, and are not for sale.

Jackson came to the Clippers during the 2019-20 season and has averaged 13.2 points, 3.8 assists and 3.2 rebounds in 146 appearances with the franchise. Through 11 NBA seasons, he has appeared in 690 games and holds career averages of 13.0 points, 4.3 assists and 3.0 rebounds. Jackson is 46-26 in Clippers games he has played in at home and has hit two game-winners in home games this season (12/11 vs. Orlando and 2/3 vs. the Lakers). Last season, he helped send the Clippers to their first-ever Western Conference Finals with a Game 6 performance at home against Utah that included 27 points on 10-of-16 shooting and a game-high 10 assists and three steals.

A thank you message from Jackson for Clipper Nation is available here.

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Reggie Jackson Thanks Fans and Encourages Clipper Nation with His Favorite Pre-Game Snack

The LA Clippers have acquired Norman Powell and Robert Covington from the Portland Trail Blazers in exchange for Eric Bledsoe, Justise Winslow, Keon Johnson and the Pistons 2025 second-round pick, announced Lawrence Frank, Clippers president of basketball operations.

Powell, 28, appeared in 40 games for the Trail Blazers this season and started 39 of them, averaging 18.7 points, 3.3 rebounds and 2.1 assists. Originally selected with the 46th overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft, Powell has appeared in 416 career games with the Trail Blazers and Raptors, averaging 11.2 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.5 assists while shooting 46.2% from the field.

“Norm is a two-way player who can score from all three levels, spread the floor with his shooting and guard multiple positions with his length and versatility,” said Frank. “He was part of a championship team in Toronto before joining the Blazers. Norm has SoCal roots, having grown up in San Diego and starred at UCLA, and we’re thrilled to bring him back.”

Covington, 31, appeared in 48 games for the Trail Blazers this season, averaging 7.6 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.5 steals. The Tennessee State University graduate has appeared in 514 career games, averaging 11.6 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.6 steals with Houston, Philadelphia, Minnesota and Portland. Covington was named to the NBA All-Defensive Team in 2017-18.

“Robert is a proven vet, a versatile wing and an excellent team defender who also stretches the floor with his shooting,” added Frank.

Bledsoe, 32, has appeared in 53 games for the Clippers this season, averaging 9.9 points, 4.1 assists and 3.4 rebounds. The Birmingham, Ala., native has appeared in 755 games and owns career averages of 13.7 points, 4.7 assists and 3.9 rebounds in 27.8 minutes during his 12-year NBA career with the Clippers, Suns, Bucks and Pelicans. Selected 18th overall in the 2010 NBA Draft out of the University of Kentucky, Bledsoe has been named to two NBA All-Defensive Teams and was selected to the All-Rookie Second Team in 2011.

“Eric is a model teammate and was a rock for us this season: running the offense, defending the ball and attacking the rim,” said Frank. “Every night, he answered the call, helping us remain competitive even when shorthanded.”

Winslow, 25, has appeared in 37 games for the Clippers this season, averaging 4.2 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.4 assists. The 6-foot-6 forward has played in 304 career games with averages of 8.3 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.5 assists over seven seasons with Miami, Memphis and the Clippers. The 10th overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft out of Duke University, Winslow was named to the 2015-16 All-Rookie Second Team after averaging 6.4 points and 5.2 rebounds.

“Justise’s role often changed, depending on circumstances, but his preparation, professionalism and upbeat spirit never wavered,” said Frank. “He too played an integral part in the competitiveness of the group with his playmaking and defense.”

Johnson, 19, was selected 21st overall in the 2021 NBA Draft and appeared in 15 games for the Clippers, averaging 3.5 points and 1.4 rebounds in 9.0 minutes. The 6-foot-4 guard has also played in seven games for the Clippers G League affiliate, where he averaged 15.4 points, 4.7 rebounds and 3.1 assists in 31.1 minutes. The Shelbyville, Tenn., native played one season at the University of Tennessee, where he was named to the 2020-21 SEC All-Freshman First Team.

“Keon is an incredible athlete, with a bright future, who demonstrated his potential on the NBA and G League stages. He has a long and promising career ahead,” said Frank.

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LA Clippers Acquire Powell and Covington from Portland Trail Blazers

The LA Clippers have re-signed free agent Kawhi Leonard, it was announced today by president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank. Per team policy, terms of the agreement were not released.

“Kawhi is a transcendent player and a relentless worker who improves himself every day,” said Frank. “We share many of the same goals, which include a long-term relationship. This agreement marks another important moment for our franchise and our fans, as we strive to create a championship-caliber organization, where players find the success and fulfillment they seek. We’re eager to continue building with Kawhi. For now, we will do whatever we can to support him in his recovery from injury. We look forward to seeing him back where he wants to be, on the court with his teammates.”

Last season, Leonard’s second with the Clippers, he appeared in 52 games and led the NBA in offensive rating (121.4), ranked fourth in net rating (12.2), and tied for fifth in steals per game (1.6). The five-time NBA All-Star averaged 24.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, and a career-high 5.2 assists while shooting 51.2 percent from the field and 88.5 percent from the free-throw line. A 6-foot-7 forward, Leonard scored 30 points or more with zero turnovers in four regular-season games, most in the NBA.

The two-time Defensive Player of the Year was named to his seventh All-Defensive team after helping the Clippers finish the season eighth in defensive rating (110.6) and second in net rating (6.1). Leonard was also named to his third All-NBA First Team, the only player to average at least 24.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 1.5 steals.

Originally selected with the 15th overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, Leonard has appeared in 576 career games, averaging 19.2 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists with the San Antonio Spurs, Toronto Raptors, and Clippers. In 2012, Leonard was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team.

A native of Moreno Valley, Calif., Leonard played two seasons of college basketball at San Diego State University, averaging 14.1 points and 10.2 rebounds, and was named second-team All-American after his sophomore year. His No. 15 jersey was retired by the Aztecs in Feb. 2020.

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LA Clippers Re-Sign Five-Time NBA All-Star Kawhi Leonard

In celebration of Women’s History Month, we are highlighting the achievements and stories of our Women employees across the LA Clippers, Agua Caliente Clippers, and the Forum.

Learn more about Vaoesea Leota, Entertainment Associate for the LA Clippers! Vaoesea assists with managing all our in-house entertainment teams that perform at LA Clippers and Agua Caliente Clippers home games.

Before I joined the Clippers, I was a Game Operations and Entertainment Intern for the LA Sparks which was my very first gig working in professional sports. As an intern there, I learned all the ins and outs of planning and executing all in-game promotions and entertainment.

When did you realize you wanted to work in sports?

I grew up in a big Samoan family where sports are a big aspect of our culture, so I was always in that environment. As a kid, I enjoyed being a fan going to my brother's football games and watching primetime NBA and NFL games as a family at home. I was always intrigued about how the behind the scenes of these big live sporting games were conducted, so I knew that it was the perfect industry for me to pursue a career in.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

My favorite thing about my job is I'm having fun while doing so, and I think that's important in any position you take on. Being able to plan an amazing show for our Clippers fans and executing it every game night is a thrill to me. From hard-hitting performances done by our Clippers Spirit to high energy t-shirt tosses, the experience is truly one of a kind.

What advice do you have for women trying to break into the sports industry?

My biggest advice is to stay true to yourself and never give up! There are going to be challenges and closed doors, but if you're passionate about working in sports and know your value, an opportunity will present itself. Just keep knocking! Take different opportunities to learn as much as you can about the industry. Just get your foot in the door, gain exposure and build relationships. We are women, there is nothing we can't achieve!

If you could have dinner with any woman in the world, who would it be and why?

Michelle Obama, most definitely. Her gracious spirit, strong-character and fight for women's rights are only a few of the admirable qualities that I love about her.

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Employee Spotlight | Celebrating Women's History Month with Vaoesea Leota

Learn more about Rita Pepaj, Marketing Director for the Forum! Rita manages everything from digital marketing to onsite experiences!

Before my time at the Forum, you could find me at Capitol Records/EMI. I was part of the digital marketing team that worked on the music catalogs of The Beatles, Pink Floyd, The Beach Boys, and countless others.

When did you realize you wanted to work in the entertainment industry?

When I bawled my eyes out at my very first concert, the Spice Girls. I was 12 years old, and it was the most incredible experience. At that moment, I knew I wanted to do that on repeat for the rest of my life. Maybe minus the crying, though.

I love creating special projects for all of our shows which include both guest and artist facing experiences. Our team is always trying to outdo ourselves, so it has been incredibly rewarding to see our ideas to come to life.

Show nights at the Forum are beyond special – from eating dinner to watching the performance, every part of it reminds me how fortunate I am to be part of such a special group. To top it off, we get to sing along with fans from all walks of life while experiencing the thrills of live music.

Also, Italian food night in the Forum Club.

What advice do you have for women trying to break into the entertainment industry?

Treat others with kindness and respect, build relationships and take your internship seriously. Those connections can stay with you for years to come.

Michelle Obama because Michelle Obama. Is there even another acceptable answer?

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Employee Spotlight | Celebrating Women's History Month with Rita Pepaj

Learn more about Sydney Stocks, our Entertainment Coordinator at the LA Clippers! She started with the team as a Mascot Assistant, then an Entertainment Assistant before being promoted to her current role where she now manages all our in-house entertainment. Sydney describes her job as a cool mix of talent management and game day production of the Clippers Spirit, Hoop Troop, Kid Clippers and Clip City Crew which help get Clipper Nation hyped at games!

I interned at Discovery Communications where I supported TLC's production team with both administrative and creative work. I wrote loglines for Say Yes To The Dress and other popular series you may have seen on your TV guide!

In college, I crossed the pond and interned at a London-based talent agency that represented professional rugby and football players. I had a blast learning from such a talented group of people who were so passionate about sports of all kinds. As a big traveler, I love how universal sports are.

I love my job because it's so fun! I know a lot of people say that, but if you've ever been to a Clippers game you know you're going to experience a great show and be thoroughly entertained from the second you sit in your seat. From the top-tier dancing on-court to the hilarious Hoop Troop pumping up our fans in the crowd, working with those hardworking and special people is so fulfilling.

Being a woman in sports is still a rarity, so instead of conforming, embrace it! I tried to blend in when I first started, and it halted both my professional and personal growth. Use your unique perspective to elevate any space you're in and inspire those around you to do the same. I am who I am today because of the incredibly powerful women who lead by example and lift me up with them.

100% Dr. Jane Goodall. I am huge animal lover and I've done countless school projects on Dr. Goodall's primate research. I would be so honored to talk about her decades of experience over a plant-based dinner. My favorite quote of hers is, “Each one of us matters, has a role to play, and makes a difference. Each one of us must take responsibility for our own lives, and above all, show respect and love for living things around us, especially each other.”

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Employee Spotlight | Celebrating Women's History Month with Sydney Stocks

Los Angeles – Today, the LA Clippers and Cedars-Sinai, the Official Health Partner of the LA Clippers, unveiled “Write the Story,” a film series featuring real stories from the Clippers’ diverse fan base. The series kicks off a season-long campaign encouraging fans to share their stories embodying “L.A. Our Way” with fans’ personal journeys of embracing the grind and relentlessly pursuing their goals.

The full-length digital feature, debuting today, highlights the unique and inspirational stories of five members of Clippers Nation in pursuit of their dreams and their passions. This includes Jorge Urtez of South Central L.A., Community Educator with the Cedars-Sinai Healthy Habits program, who makes a difference in his community by teaching the importance of quality nutrition and physical activity and providing food for those in need. Also highlighted are Natalie Gutierrez, a youth basketball coach from Sun Valley; Colby Brooks, a student-athlete from Altadena; Jon Kim, a chef and business owner from Koreatown; and Sydni Chustz from South Central L.A., a producer, activist, and the founder of Bid Black. Fans can view the video feature in its entirety on the Clippers’ official YouTube, here.

The Clippers encourage fans to share their own story and personal journey at www.clippers.com/writethestory. Throughout the 2020-21 NBA season, additional stories will be selected and highlighted to continue to inspire Clipper Nation and will also have the opportunity of being chosen for unique moments of appreciation, including the resources and support to help achieve their goals.

Additionally, the Clippers will utilize the Write the Story platform to support small businesses across the city, including local restaurants, retailers, and creators, through gameday discounts, promotions, and leveraging the team’s social platforms.

Cedars-Sinai and the LA Clippers are longstanding partners committed to the health and wellbeing of the people of our Los Angeles community. Volunteers from both organizations recently delivered thousands of toys and masks to local youth organizations as part of the LA Clippers Holiday Toy Caravan presented by Cedars-Sinai.

Fans can get more information about the platform or submit their stories at www.clippers.com/writethestory.

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LA Clippers and Cedars-Sinai Unveil Fan-Focused Film Series, Write The Story

The LA Clippers have signed center Daniel Oturu, it was announced today by President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank. Per team policy, terms of the agreement were not released.

Selected 33rd overall in the second round of the 2020 NBA Draft, Oturu led the Big Ten with 11.3 rebounds and 2.5 blocks to go along with 20.1 points in 33.9 minutes during his sophomore season at Minnesota. The 6-foot-10 center shot 56.3 percent from the field last season, which also led the Big Ten. The Woodbury, Minn., native was named to the 2019-20 Big Ten All-Defense team and 2019-20 All-Big Ten second team for the Gophers.