Justin Robinson
· Year: Redshirt Sophomore
· Height: 6-foot-9
· Position: Forward
· Last year’s statline: 0.2 PPG, 0.2 RPG
Game Breakdown: Robinson’s length leaps off the table when he stands on the court. At 6-foot-9, Robinson has the ability to make a difference on the defensive end of the floor— Robinson registered at least 4.5 blocks his last two years in high school—with his gangly wingspan, and can give opposing wing players fits. But an inability to become an offensive threat relegated Robinson to the bench last season after redshirting his first year in Durham, and that should remain the same until he can develop more with the ball in his hands.
Role on the Team: After getting awarded with a surprise scholarship over the summer, Robinson has made a few impressive plays, but should not see much playing time this season. Despite his length and ability to make his presence felt defensively, there is simply too much depth, barring injury, for Robinson to make much of an impact on the court.
However, Robinson has had a chance to display his talents during Duke’s two exhibition matchups this season, as he registered three blocks in 15 minutes against Bowie St. and four points, three rebounds and two assists in just eight minutes against Northwest Missouri St.
NBA Comparison: Robinson’s game brings to mind Portland Trail Blazers swingman Al-Farouq Aminu, especially when Aminu entered the league after getting drafted eighth overall. Aminu has always made his way onto the court as a long defender despite his lack of an outside shot, and he has improved his 3-point shot in recent seasons as well. If Robinson can grow into the three-and-d player that has become so invaluable in the NBA, Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski will have no option but to give him playing time.
Projected stats: 0.6 PPG, 1.2 RPG, 0.4 APG
Stay tuned to the Blue Zone for our continuing player previews with sophomore Justin Robinson tomorrow. Previous players previewed include Jordan Goldwire, Alex O'Connell, Jordan Tucker, Gary Trent Jr., Wendell Carter Jr., Trevon Duval, Marvin Bagley III, Javin DeLaurier, Jack White, Marques Bolden and Antonio Vrankovic.
Get The Chronicle straight to your inbox
Signup for our weekly newsletter. Cancel at any time.