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"It Was a Dark Place": Nate Robinson Addresses Battle With Kidney Failure
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- "It Was a Dark Place": Nate Robinson Addresses Battle With Kidney Failure
Nate Robinson had quite the memorable run in the pros, highlighted by his three Dunk Contest titles. He played 11 seasons in the NBA, averaging 11.0 points, 2.3 rebounds and 3.0 assists.
Robinson last played in the league in 2015-16, albeit suiting up for just two games with the New Orleans Pelicans . Ever since then, Robinson has ventured into other areas, appearing in the movie " Uncle Drew ," joining the 3-on-3 league BIG3 and even going into boxing.
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However, it hasn't been an easy journey for Robinson after his playing career, most especially after he discovered that his kidneys were failing back in 2021. Robinson already knew during his time with the New York Knicks that his kidneys were not functioning properly, per ESPN , but he certainly wasn't prepared for the struggles that came with it.
Robinson had to undergo dialysis to treat his kidney failure, and in 2024, he went public with his need for a kidney donor. By February this year, he had a transplant after a man named Shane Cleveland stepped up to help him.
Tri State point guard Nate Robinson (11) during the game at the American Airlines Center.Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Now, in an exclusive interview with Athlon Sports, Robinson opened up about his current health condition, just a little over nine months since his operation.
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"Overall I'm doing great, every day drinking water, working out, staying healthy, eating right, just enjoying life with this second chance, with this kidney, it's been great," Robinson shared, via Casino.org who ranks the best online casinos in Canada .
Robinson also discussed his experience overcoming the disease, admitting that he was in a "dark place" as he struggled with the treatments and finding a donor.
"Dealing with the hospital visits, being sick, the body aches, feeling tired from being on dialysis, going to dialysis three days a week for four hours for four years, it takes a toll on your body," Robinson shared. "It was a lot. It was a dark place."
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Robinson also expressed how thankful he is for the donor that "blessed" him with a kidney. He added that he couldn't have survived the trying times without the "great supporting cast" he has.
Now, the 41-year-old former NBA guard is trying to make the most of his second chance at life. Aside from spending time with his kids, Robinson is also trying to stay involved in basketball, recently sharing his plan to start a podcast and pursue broadcasting.
Related: NBA Dunk Legend Nate Robinson Announces Career Move
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Nov 20, 2025, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
