🔵 From Durham to Hollywood: Duke Favorite Justin Robinson Joins Lakers Coaching Staff in Major NBA Leap
He wasn’t a star, but he was the spark.
Justin Robinson may not have lit up the scoreboard during his time at Duke, but what he brought to the program couldn’t be measured in stats. The son of NBA Hall of Famer David Robinson, “J-Rob” earned his place in Duke hearts through sheer hustle, heart, and leadership. Now, after proving his coaching chops back in Durham, he’s headed to the big stage — joining the Los Angeles Lakers as the newest member of their coaching staff. For Duke fans, it’s not just a win for Robinson — it’s a win for the Brotherhood.
Duke fans have one more reason to be proud.
Justin Robinson, the heart and soul of Duke’s bench during his playing days and a rising star on the coaching staff, has just landed a major role with the Los Angeles Lakers — a stunning rise for someone who once went overlooked on the court but never in spirit.
“Congrats to our guy J-Rob!” Duke Basketball wrote on X/Twitter. “A fantastic addition to the Lakers staff.”
The 28-year-old son of NBA legend David Robinson, Justin never sought the spotlight — but earned respect the hard way. At Duke, he wasn’t a starter, nor a stat-sheet stuffer. But his infectious energy, fierce work ethic, and leadership by example made him a fan favorite and a locker room inspiration.
🎓 After graduating in 2020, Robinson didn’t fade away — he took his talents abroad, playing professionally in Montenegro and Israel. But it was his 2023 return to Durham as a player development coach that truly proved his calling.
Under his guidance, elite Blue Devil recruits like Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel, and Khaman Maluach made significant strides. His fingerprints are all over Duke’s player success stories.
Now, he takes that same drive to the NBA — joining a Lakers team searching for fresh direction and youthful energy following a tough playoff exit.
🏀 Why Duke Fans Should Celebrate
Justin Robinson is the epitome of the Duke Brotherhood — humble, hard-working, and deeply committed to elevating others. From walk-on to coaching the best young talent, his rise is Duke’s legacy in motion.
And even in Lakers gold, Robinson will always bleed Duke blue.
