Former NBA player Nattrovinson has successfully had a kidney transplant

Nattrovinson has a new kidney.

The former NBA guard received a new organ during a few hours of transplant surgery that began Friday morning at Washington University Medical Center in Seattle.

Starting a day surrounded by friends and family, Robinson received a new kidney from a living donor.

As ESPN was recorded in the summer of 2024, Robinson first learned about it when he was playing for the New York Knicks nearly 20 years ago. His kidneys were not functioning properly and showed that one day he would need a transplant.

Then, in 2021, Robinson learned that his kidneys were failing and began undergoing dialysis treatment every week at a clinic in Seattle. There, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, I sat in a chair from 5:30am to 9am, when a tube pumped the liquid pumped inside and out of his arm.

Robinson initially had a hard time going through the process as he assumed he would be automatically placed on the kidney waiting list.

In the fall of 2022, Robinson was first published about being treated for kidney failure, but in the spring of 2024, he announced that he would need a donor two years later.

Shortly afterwards, Robinson told ESPN last year that Washington University (his alma mater) was flooded with offers from people trying to donate their kidneys.

Last fall, Robinson underwent a series of procedures, including colonoscopy. This is because the number of donors was cut to find an ideal match.

Before the steps begin on Friday, Robinson posted on his Instagram, partially saying, “I'm here to celebrate here and thank the Lord for everything he's done in my life.” Today is the day I got my new kidneys. All those who sent prayers and texted my phone will encourage me (and) love!!!”

From 2005 to 2016, Robinson played 11 seasons in the NBA on eight different teams. He averaged 11 points per game. This included 17.2 from 2008-2009, the final season with The Knicks, winning Slam Dunk contests in 2006, 2009 and 2010.