Duncan Robinson delivered a powerful tribute to his brother Eli during a pivotal moment for the Detroit Pistons in the NBA playoffs. This coincided with the tragic reality of Eli’s struggles with mental health, culminating in his death by suicide on April 30, 2025.
Eli Robinson battled schizophrenia and addiction throughout his life, facing immense challenges that included 16 psychiatric hospitalizations. His journey was marked by profound difficulties—he often experienced delusions and heard voices, as shared by his sister, Marta Robinson Day, a licensed mental health counselor.
In honoring Eli, Duncan has kept his memory alive by wearing a pendant that signifies Eli’s sobriety date every day. This personal gesture reflects not only his love but also a commitment to raising awareness about mental health issues.
The Robinson family has actively sought to make a difference through the establishment of the Robinson Family Foundation, which aims to support families grappling with similar challenges. Duncan has expressed hope that sharing his brother’s story will encourage others to speak openly about their struggles.
On the court, Duncan’s focus was unwavering as he played for the Pistons in an intense playoff series against the Orlando Magic. In Game 6, they found themselves down by 24 points before making a remarkable comeback. Paul Reed emerged as a pivotal player during this comeback, stepping onto the court with just 3:55 left in the third quarter.
Duncan stated, “Eli was my inspiration,” highlighting how deeply his brother influenced him both on and off the court. His heartfelt words resonate not just within basketball circles but also among those advocating for mental health awareness.
The impact of Duncan’s tribute extends beyond sports; it serves as a reminder of the critical conversations surrounding mental health. As more individuals share their stories, it fosters an environment where others might feel empowered to do the same.
As we reflect on these events and their significance, it’s clear that while Duncan Robinson continues to strive for success with the Pistons, he carries with him the memory of his brother—a source of strength and inspiration.