Former NBA star Nate Robinson has faced many challenges on the court, but his toughest battle has been off it—fighting kidney disease. After years of struggling with renal failure, Robinson finally received a life-saving kidney transplant, thanks to the generosity of Shane Cleveland, a stranger turned hero.
Robinson was diagnosed with kidney disease in 2006, during his rookie season with the New York Knicks. For years, he managed the condition through hospital visits and treatments, but his health deteriorated significantly in 2020, forcing him to begin dialysis. By 2024, Robinson publicly announced that he was in desperate need of a kidney donor, fearing that time was running out.
Cleveland, a University of Washington football fan, learned about Robinson’s condition at a spring football game, where a message on the video board encouraged attendees to consider donating a kidney. Inspired by his wife Kara, who had previously donated a kidney, Cleveland stepped forward and was found to be a match.
The two did not meet until after the surgery, but their bond was instant. In an emotional reunion, Robinson called Cleveland his “guardian angel” and “brother”, expressing deep gratitude for the gift of life. Cleveland’s daughters had initially been concerned about their father’s decision, but Robinson reassured them, saying,
“Your dad saved my life. I’ve always wanted to be a grandpa, and now I get to be one someday”.
Three years ago, I shared my story with @playmaker. Now, thanks to the generosity of a donor and the love of a new family, I’m starting a new chapter. Click the link to hear more about my journey.https://t.co/QZ7XBaTalH pic.twitter.com/6vSSXLoctx
— Nate Robinson (@nate_robinson) April 29, 2025
Robinson’s successful transplant marks the beginning of a new chapter in his life. The three-time NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion is now focused on recovery and raising awareness about kidney disease and organ donation.
