Leonard Eugene "Truck" Robinson, known for his robust presence on the basketball court, played as a power forward in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Born on October 4, 1951, in Jacksonville, Florida, Robinson's journey to professional basketball began at Tennessee State University, where he honed his skills and developed into a formidable player. His college career set the stage for his entry into the NBA, where he would spend a decade showcasing his talents.
Robinson entered the NBA when he was selected by the Washington Bullets in the second round of the 1974 NBA Draft. Standing at 6 feet 7 inches and weighing 225 pounds, he quickly became known for his strength and rebounding ability. His rookie season with the Bullets was a learning experience, but he soon found his stride after being traded to the Atlanta Hawks in 1975. It was with the Hawks that Robinson began to demonstrate his potential, averaging 22.4 points and 15.7 rebounds per game during the 1977-78 season.
The 1977-78 season was a breakout year for Robinson, as he led the league in rebounding and earned a spot on the All-NBA First Team. His performance caught the attention of the New Orleans Jazz, who acquired him in a trade. Robinson continued to excel with the Jazz, maintaining his status as one of the league's top rebounders and earning two NBA All-Star selections in 1978 and 1981.
In 1979, the Jazz relocated to Utah, and Robinson remained a key player for the team. His ability to dominate the boards and score efficiently made him a valuable asset. However, in 1982, Robinson was traded to the Phoenix Suns, where he continued to be a reliable performer. His tenure with the Suns was marked by consistent play, as he provided veteran leadership and stability to the team.
Robinson's career took another turn when he was traded to the New York Knicks in 1982. With the Knicks, he played alongside other talented players and contributed to the team's efforts in the Eastern Conference. Although his scoring numbers declined, Robinson's experience and rebounding prowess remained valuable to the Knicks.
Throughout his NBA career, Robinson was known for his physical style of play and his ability to control the paint. He was a relentless rebounder, often outmuscling opponents to secure the ball. His scoring ability, particularly in the post, made him a dual threat on the court. Robinson's career averages of 15.5 points and 9.4 rebounds per game reflect his consistent performance over the years.
After retiring from professional basketball in 1985, Robinson's legacy as a tenacious power forward remained.
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