Jazz Fan JP Gibson Announces Cancer Has Returned
Nov 7, 2023, 6:37 PM
Then five-year-old free agent guard JP Gibson shows off his uniform after signing a one-day contract with the Utah Jazz in 2014. (Credit: Tom Smart, Deseret News)
(Credit: Tom Smart, Deseret News)
SALT LAKE CITY – Utah Jazz superfan JP Gibson who brought the team’s loyalists together after twice defeating cancer announced Monday that his cancer has returned.
Originally diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in 2012, Gibson beat the disease in 2015 before it returned in 2017.
Now 14 years old, Gibson is asking for support after his third diagnosis.
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“We found out yesterday that my cancer is back for the 3rd time,” Gibson announced. “I got admitted to the hospital yesterday and will start chemo later this week.”
Gibson Inspired JPStrong Movement
Gibson’s Instagram page has followed both his battles with cancer and his life as a sports fan.
In addition to the Jazz, Gibson is an avid University of Utah and Atlanta Braves fan.
“He’s loved sports since day one,” Josh Gibson, JP’s father said. “At 12 months old, he’d just climb up on the couch and watch full games of basketball with me.”
The young fan has been a familiar face around the Jazz for the last decade after signing a one-day contract with the team in October 2014.
His presence around the team inspired the #JPStrong hashtag on social media which became a rallying cry for Jazz fans.
The Jazz even designed a “JP Strong” t-shirt in 2017 with all proceeds going to support the Gibson family.
After signing his contract, Gibson participated in the Jazz preseason scrimmage alongside Dante Exum, Rodney Hood, Gordon Hayward, and Rudy Gobert.
Within hours of announcing his latest diagnosis, Gibson’s post had received nearly 100 comments sharing support for him in his journey.
“Please follow me on my journey as I beat cancer again,” Gibson wrote.
Ben Anderson is the Utah Jazz insider for KSL Sports and the co-host of Jake and Ben from 10-12p with Jake Scott on 97.5 The KSL Sports Zone. Find Ben on Twitter at @BensHoops or on Instagram @BensHoops.
