Three-time NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion Nate Robinson has revealed that he has been dealing with kidney failure after a four-year battle with the illness. The Seattle-born star was an absolute fan-favourite during his time in the league after being by the New York Knicks in 2005.
The 38-year-old Robinson has played 11 seasons in the NBA for eight different franchises. Coming in at 5-foot-9, Robinson quickly became a well-known player with his incredible scoring ability paired up with high effort level and highlight dunks.
“I am currently undergoing treatment for Renal Kidney Failure and have been privately dealing with it for the last four years. I'm sharing this now because I want to be the voice for all those who are having trouble speaking about this illness, and come together for a greater cause - our health.”
“I was never a vocal leader on the court, I preferred to lead by example, but now it's time for me to speak up and help all those affected by or dealing with Kidney Disease. I am grateful for the care and support I've received and continue to receive during this process and hope through this announcement that I can help others like me.”
Nate Robinson reached the peak of his popularity as he won the NBA Slam Dunk Contest three times, first in 2006 then back-to-back titles in 2009 and 2010. Robinson last played in the NBA in a New Orleans Pelicans jersey in the 2015-16 season, but continued playing basketball with stints for Hapoel Tel Aviv in Israel, the G League's Delaware 87ers and Guaros de Lara in Venezuela.
Outside basketball, Robinson has been very active as he ventured into multiple avenues like media, writing books, films etc. He had a major role in the basketball-centric film called ‘Uncle Drew’ with other NBA legends like Shaquille O'Neal, Chris Webber, etc. He released a book called ‘Heart Over Height’ and also fought Jake Paul in a boxing match.
