Mitchell Robinson

Mitchell Robinson is a professional basketball player who serves as the starting center for the New York Knicks in the National Basketball Association (NBA) renowned for his elite shot-blocking, rebounding, and defensive presence in the paint.

Robinson played high school basketball in Pensacola, Florida, and later at Chalmette High School in Louisiana. Initially committed to Western Kentucky University, he made headlines by withdrawing from the program before the season began to train independently for the NBA Draft. This decision marked him as the first high-profile player to skip college basketball entirely in favor of personal preparation for the professional league.

Selected 36th overall in the second round of the 2018 NBA Draft by the New York Knicks, Robinson quickly established himself as a defensive force. In his rookie season, he averaged 2.4 blocks per game, earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team.

Throughout his career, Robinson has been lauded for his exceptional field goal percentage, setting a Knicks record with a 74.2% shooting percentage during the 2019–2020 season. His offensive game primarily revolves around efficient scoring near the rim, often through alley-oops and putbacks.

Despite facing challenges with injuries, including multiple ankle surgeries that limited his playtime in the 2023–2024 season, Robinson has demonstrated resilience. He returned to the lineup in late February 2025, contributing significantly during the playoffs with his rebounding and defensive capabilities.

Robinson has compiled an impressive list of career highlights since entering the NBA. He was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2019 and holds the Knicks’ all-time record for field goal percentage, shooting an astounding 74.2% during the 2019–2020 season. His career highs include 23 points, 21 rebounds, and 9 blocks, underscoring his dominance in the paint. Robinson’s defensive prowess has been a cornerstone for the Knicks, particularly evident during the 2025 playoffs.