Nathaniel Cornelius Robinson, born May 31, 1984, in Seattle, emerged as an athletic standout before becoming the first player in NBA history to win three Slam Dunk Contest titles. Standing 5-foot-9-inches, he navigated an 11-season professional career across eight franchises, balancing a reputation for explosive verticality with a complex tenure in the league's competitive rotations.
Formative Athleticism
Robinson developed his skills at Rainier Beach High School in South Seattle, with a single-year excursion to James Logan High School in Union City, California. Returning to Rainier Beach for the 2001–02 senior season, he excelled in basketball, track, and football. His basketball performance led the team to an AAA state championship with a 28–1 record, securing him the title of AAA State player of the year in Washington.
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Enrolling at the University of Washington, Robinson initially held a football scholarship. During the 2002 season, he appeared in 13 football games, starting as a cornerback for the final six, including the Sun Bowl. Following his freshman year, he pivoted to focus entirely on basketball. He earned All-Pac-10 first team honors twice and led the team to the Sweet Sixteen of the 2005 NCAA Tournament before declaring for the NBA draft.
Professional Trajectory and Slam Dunk Success
Selected 21st overall in the 2005 NBA draft by the Phoenix Suns, Robinson was immediately traded to the New York Knicks. His tenure in New York included a 45-point performance against the Portland Trail Blazers and a notable return to the rotation in 2010. Beyond individual scoring, he secured his place in league history by winning the Slam Dunk Contest in 2006, 2009, and 2010. His professional journey subsequently spanned stints with the Boston Celtics, Oklahoma City Thunder, Golden State Warriors, Chicago Bulls, Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Clippers, and New Orleans Pelicans.
Fast facts
- Born: May 31, 1984, Seattle, Washington
- NBA Draft: 21st overall pick, 2005
- Height: 5 feet 9 inches
- College: University of Washington
- Notable Achievement: First three-time NBA Slam Dunk champion
- High School: Rainier Beach High School
- Career Length: 11 NBA seasons
Questions readers ask
Which NBA teams did Nate Robinson play for?
He played for the New York Knicks, Boston Celtics, Oklahoma City Thunder, Golden State Warriors, Chicago Bulls, Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Clippers, and New Orleans Pelicans.
Did he play sports other than basketball in college?
Yes, he played football for the University of Washington, appearing in 13 games as a cornerback during his freshman year.
