David Robinson Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / July 15, 2024
David Robinson Then
David Robinson, born on August 6, 1965, in Key West, Florida, relocated with his family to Woodbridge, Virginia, where he excelled both academically and athletically.
His talents on the basketball court began to shine during his time at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.
Robinson led the academy’s team to three consecutive NCAA tournaments from 1985 to 1987, showcasing his exceptional skills as a collegiate player despite concerns about his mandatory military service delaying his professional career.
David Robinson Career History
Upon joining the NBA, David Robinson quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier centers.
His rookie season in 1989 showcased his versatility and dominance, averaging 24.3 points, 12 rebounds, and 3.9 blocked shots per game, earning him the NBA Rookie of the Year award.
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Known for his graceful playing style, Robinson’s finesse near the basket contrasted with the physicality expected of NBA centers at the time.
Despite early criticisms of being perceived as “soft,” he continued to excel, winning accolades such as the NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 1992 and the league’s Most Valuable Player in 1995.
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Robinson’s pinnacle in the NBA came during the 1998–99 season when he teamed up with Tim Duncan to lead the San Antonio Spurs to their first NBA championship.
This success continued in 2002–03, marking his final season before retirement, where he secured another NBA title.
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At the time of his retirement, Robinson ranked among the top 25 players in NBA history for career points and rebounds, and he was fourth all-time in blocked shots.
His contributions to basketball extended beyond the NBA, as he was also a key member of the U.S. men’s basketball teams that won gold medals at the 1992 and 1996 Olympic Games.
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In recognition of his illustrious career, David Robinson was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2009, solidifying his legacy as one of the game’s greatest centers.
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David Robinson Height
David Robinson, towering at 2.16 meters tall, utilized his impressive height advantage to dominate the NBA with his scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking abilities throughout his illustrious career.
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David Robinson Retirement
David Robinson’s retirement from basketball following the 2002–03 season culminated in a triumphant moment as the San Antonio Spurs secured another NBA championship on June 15, 2003.
In Game 6 of the NBA Finals against the New Jersey Nets, the Spurs clinched victory with a decisive 88–77 score.
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This final game of Robinson’s storied career not only marked a fitting conclusion to his tenure but also highlighted his instrumental role in the Spurs’ success.
His leadership, defensive prowess, and veteran presence were crucial factors in guiding the team to their second championship during his tenure, solidifying his legacy as a basketball legend.
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David Robinson Wife
In 1991, David Robinson married Valerie Hoggatt, and together they raised a family of three sons: David Jr., Corey, and Justin.
Their family life has been marked by support for their children’s athletic pursuits, with Corey excelling in football at Notre Dame and Justin making a name for himself in basketball, notably playing for Duke University and later signing with Erste Liga’s Mornar Bar.
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The Robinson household has been a testament to balance, nurturing both academic and athletic achievements among their children, while David and Valerie have maintained a close-knit family dynamic amidst the demands of professional sports and personal endeavors.
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David Robinson Now
At 58 years old, David Robinson remains an influential figure in the world of basketball and beyond.
After retiring from a stellar career with the San Antonio Spurs in 2003, where he distinguished himself as one of the NBA’s premier centers, Robinson has continued to contribute to the sport as a minority owner of the Spurs franchise.
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His ownership role allows him to stay closely connected to the team and the basketball community, offering his wealth of experience and leadership to support the organization’s ongoing success.
Beyond his involvement in basketball, Robinson has been active in philanthropy and community service.
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He established the Carver Academy in San Antonio, a private school aimed at providing educational opportunities to underprivileged children.
His commitment to education and youth development reflects his dedication to making a positive impact off the court, further solidifying his reputation as a role model and leader both within the NBA and in broader societal contexts.
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In addition to his business and philanthropic endeavors, Robinson continues to inspire through his public speaking engagements and advocacy work.
His legacy as a basketball Hall of Famer and community leader underscores his enduring influence, demonstrating a commitment to excellence in all aspects of life long after his playing days concluded.
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David Robinson Net Worth
David Robinson, despite retiring from professional basketball, has amassed a significant net worth estimated at $200 million, reflecting his successful career both on and off the court.
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FAQs
Yes, David Robinson has two NBA championship rings. He won them with the San Antonio Spurs in 1999 and 2003.
David Robinson was famous for his outstanding career as a professional basketball player, primarily with the San Antonio Spurs.
He was known for his exceptional skills as a center, including scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking, as well as his leadership both on and off the court.
David Robinson’s wife is Valerie Hoggatt. They married in 1991.
David Robinson served two years in the U.S. Navy as a civil engineering officer after graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy.
David Robinson is currently involved as a minority owner of the San Antonio Spurs and is active in philanthropy, particularly through the Carver Academy, a school he founded in San Antonio.
David Robinson retired from professional basketball in 2003 after a successful career with the San Antonio Spurs, where he won two NBA championships.
Since then, he has focused on business ventures, philanthropy, and community service.
David Robinson’s sons have pursued their own athletic careers. Corey Robinson played football at Notre Dame, and Justin Robinson played basketball at Duke University before signing with Mornar Bar in the Erste Liga.