Duncan Robinson Bio
Duncan McBryde Robinson is an American professional basketball player for the Detroit Pistons of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the NCAA Division III Williams College Ephs and then the NCAA Division I Michigan Wolverines. After going undrafted in the 2018 NBA Draft, Robinson signed with the Miami Heat, where he set numerous three-point shot records during his tenure. He is the only player from Williams College to ever play in the NBA.
Early Life and Background
Born on April 22, 1994, in York, Maine, Duncan Robinson is the son of Elisabeth and Jeffrey Robinson and the youngest of their three children. He grew up in New Castle, New Hampshire, where he attended Maude H. Trefethen Elementary School. Robinson’s early exposure to basketball began at a young age, and he practiced shooting extensively, aiming to make 1,600 shots per week. He attended The Governor’s Academy in Massachusetts, where he developed his skills further and became a standout player. After graduating from The Governor’s Academy, he played a postgraduate year at Phillips Exeter Academy, leading the team to a NEPSAC Class A championship.
Path to Basketball
Duncan Robinson’s basketball journey began at Rye Junior High School before he transferred to The Governor’s Academy. He started as a point guard but eventually grew to be a formidable player, averaging 18.5 points per game as a senior. Following high school, he received an offer from Williams College, where he made an immediate impact as a freshman, leading the team to the NCAA Division III championship game in 2014. After a successful freshman year, Robinson transferred to the University of Michigan to compete at a higher level, where he continued to excel and became the Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year in 2018.
Duncan Robinson Career
Early Career (2018-2025)
Duncan Robinson began his professional career after going undrafted in the 2018 NBA Draft. He signed a two-way contract with the Miami Heat and the Sioux Falls Skyforce. Robinson made his NBA debut on October 24, 2018, and quickly established himself as a key player for the Heat. He set franchise records for three-point shooting, including the fastest player to reach 300, 400, and 500 career three-pointers. Robinson’s breakout season came in 2019-2020 when he helped the Heat reach the NBA Finals and was recognized as one of the best shooters in the league.
Breakthrough (2020-2023)
Robinson’s breakthrough moment came during the 2020 NBA playoffs, where he became a vital contributor to the Miami Heat’s success. He tied the franchise record for most three-pointers in a playoff game and helped the team reach the finals against the Los Angeles Lakers. In the 2021-2022 season, he signed a five-year contract worth $90 million, the largest contract for an undrafted player in NBA history. Robinson continued to break records, becoming the fastest player to reach 800 career three-pointers and setting multiple franchise records for shooting efficiency.
Notable Works and Milestones
Duncan Robinson’s signature work includes setting multiple three-point shooting records and being a key player in the Miami Heat’s playoff runs. He has been recognized for his shooting ability and has made significant contributions to the team’s success in the NBA playoffs.
Duncan Robinson Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Duncan Robinson has received several nominations for his outstanding performances, particularly in the NBA G League and during his college career at Michigan and Williams College.
Duncan Robinson Awards Won
Duncan Robinson has achieved notable awards, including being named to the NBA G League All-Rookie Team and the Third-team All-NBA G League. He was also recognized as the Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year and received multiple accolades during his time at Williams College, including Division III Rookie of the Year.
Duncan Robinson Family
Duncan Robinson is the youngest of three children in his family. His parents, Elisabeth and Jeffrey Robinson, have been supportive of his basketball career from a young age.
Personal Life
Duncan Robinson has faced personal challenges, including the tragic loss of his older brother, Eli, who died by suicide in 2025. In response, Robinson and his family established the Robinson Family Foundation to help others dealing with mental health issues. He also hosts a podcast called “The Long Shot Pod,” where he engages in conversations with various guests, including NBA players and celebrities.
