The Portland Trail Blazers picked Robinson in the second round as the 36th overall pick. He quickly became an integral part of the team, contributing to their success in the early 1990s. Robinson's versatility allowed him to play both forward and center positions, and he was known for his defensive skills and ability to score from various spots on the court. During his time with the Trail Blazers, Robinson helped the team reach the NBA Finals in 1990 and 1992, although they fell short of winning the championship both times.
Robinson's career in Portland was marked by individual accolades as well. In 1993, he was named the NBA Sixth Man of the Year, recognizing his exceptional performance coming off the bench. His scoring ability, combined with his defensive prowess, made him a valuable asset to the team. Robinson's tenure with the Trail Blazers lasted until 1997, during which he became a fan favorite and a respected player in the league.
In 1997, Robinson signed with the Phoenix Suns as a free agent. His time with the Suns further solidified his reputation as a reliable player. He continued to be a strong defensive presence and a consistent scorer, helping the Suns reach the playoffs multiple times. Robinson's ability to adapt to different roles and his experience made him a leader on and off the court.
After four seasons with the Suns, Robinson joined the Detroit Pistons in 2001. His veteran presence was valuable to the Pistons, and he played a key role in their playoff runs. Robinson's stint with the Pistons was followed by a move to the Golden State Warriors in 2003. With the Warriors, he continued to demonstrate his skills and leadership, contributing to the development of younger players on the team.
Robinson's final NBA stop was with the New Jersey Nets, where he played from 2005 to 2007. Even in the latter stages of his career, Robinson remained a dependable player, known for his work ethic and professionalism. Over his 18-year NBA career, Robinson played in 1,380 games, scoring over 19,000 points and recording more than 6,000 rebounds.
Off the court, Robinson was known for his philanthropy and community involvement. He participated in various charitable activities and was committed to giving back to the communities he was part of throughout his career. Robinson's legacy in the NBA is remembered not only for his on-court achievements but also for his character and contributions to the sport.
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