A longtime NBA player and guest on ‘Survivor’ was found dead at 53 years old the morning of August 29th. No cause of death has been released as of yet.
Cliff Robinson had suffered a stroke and brain hemorrhage in 2017, and had a tumor removed from his jaw in 2018. It is unknown whether these events were a factor in his death.
Robinson began his career at University of Connecticut, where he played for four seasons for the UConn Huskies. In 2007, his jersey number ’00’ was retired at the Gampel Pavillion as part of the ‘Huskies of Honor’ ceremony. The event recognized the accomplishments of three former coaches and 13 former players.
After college, Robinson played for the NBA for 18 seasons, starting with the Portland Trailblazers in 1989, where he stayed for 8 seasons. Afterwards, he played for the Phoenix Suns from 1997-2001, the Detroit Pistons from 2001-2003, the Golden State Warriors from 2003-2005, and the New Jersey Nets from 2005-2007.
In 2014, after retiring, Robinson was a competitor on ‘Survivor’ season 28, where he finished in 14th place.
Cliff Robinson is survived by his son, Isaiah, and his wife Heather Lufkins.
What a shame. That’s way too young to die in today’s America. RIP!