Nate Robinson, a former NBA star known for his high-flying dunks and relentless energy, has faced a battle far tougher than any opponent on the court. Diagnosed with kidney disease in 2006, Robinson quietly managed the condition for years while playing for eight differentNBA teams over an 11-year career. But in his 30s, his health took a serious hit, especially when COVID-19 struck and nearly cost him his life by forcing him into immediate dialysis.
By April 2024, with kidney failure looming, Robinson admitted he didn’t have long to live without a transplant. That’s when Shane Cleveland, a man from Bremerton, Washington, who lives with his wife, Kara, and their four daughters, stepped in as a donor. In February 2025, Cleveland’s selfless act gave Robinson a new lease on life, bringing him back from the brink and putting him on the road to recovery.
A Heartfelt Video: Robinson Thanks His Lifesaver
Robinson shared a touching video detailing how Shane Cleveland’s kidney donation changed everything for him. A moving video captures the emotional moment when Nate hugs Shane and expresses his gratitude for the second chance at life.
After years of dialysis and waiting for a donor, Shane’s selfless act not only saved Nate’s life, but also forged a deep bond between them. Nate described the transplant as a rescue, underscoring the profound impact of Shane’s generosity and the lasting bond they now share. With renewed energy, Robinson is already looking ahead – to coaching, starting with his daughter’s basketball team, and getting back in shape. “I want to look better than my kids when I’m 40,” he said with a laugh, showing the same grit that made him a fan favorite.
Cleveland’s decision to donate didn’t just give Robinson more years, it gave him a new purpose. Now, he’s dreaming of a future inspired by former players like Isiah Thomas and Jamal Crawford, who have gone into coaching and broadcasting. Robinson, who last played in the NBA in 2015 before high blood pressure forced him to retire, sees this as his next chapter, one in which he can give back to the game that shaped his life.
The significance of this moment for Robinson can’t be overstated. To be on the brink of death, only to be pulled back by the generosity of others, is nothing short of miraculous. At 6’5″, Robinson defied the odds in the NBA, becoming a three-time Slam Dunk Contest champion and averaging 11 points per game throughout his career. His heart and hustle made him a standout, and now that same spirit is driving him forward. This transplant isn’t just a medical triumph – it’s a testament to the human connection that has Robinson and all who hear his story deeply moved.
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