Cliff Robinson, an early star in UConn’s rise to power and longtime top sixth man in the NBA, died Saturday aged 53.
Nicknamed Uncle Cliffy and known for his trademark headband, Robinson played 18 seasons in the NBA and helped the Portland Trail Blazers reach two NBA Finals.
No cause of death was given, though former Huskies coach Jim Calhoun said Robinson had a stroke 2 and a half years ago.
‘It’s really sad to hear of this, because he was one of my kids, my players, a guy I watched grow into a man,’ Calhoun said. ‘It’s not an easy thing.’
His death was announced Saturday by the University of Connecticut, his alma mater.
‘The UConn Basketball family mourns the loss of a legendary player and person, Clifford Robinson,’ the school’s men’s basketball program posted on Twitter.
‘Our thoughts and prayers are with Cliff’s family at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Cliff.’
He is survived by his wife, Heather Lufkins, and his son, Isaiah.