Jaxson Robinson signs with Cavaliers, finally gets his NBA opportunity
After some uncertainty following the NBA Draft, Jaxson Robinson has found his professional home.
Mark Pope's biggest win of the off-season of year 1, was to get Jaxson Robinson to follow him from BYU to Kentucky. He was set to be the "guy" for Kentucky, who had a team full of role players. While that never materialized, he was picking up momentum before the wrist injury ended his year.
The former Kentucky wing has signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, the top seed in last year’s Eastern Conference. It’s a one-year, non-guaranteed deal that gives Robinson a chance to prove himself during training camp and summer league. If he doesn’t land on the Cavs’ main roster, he could be converted to a two-way deal or find his way to Cleveland’s G League affiliate.
Robinson was one of two Wildcats from last season who remained unsigned—along with Ansley Almonor—after going undrafted. Now, he’ll try to turn potential into production at the next level.
Before a wrist injury cut his final college season short, Robinson averaged 13.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game, while shooting 43.2% from the field. His combination of size, length, and shooting touch fits the mold of a modern NBA wing.
He was a key piece that really picked up his game in SEC play, as the Cats started to find rhythm before injuries derailed them down the stretch. He tried to play through his injury with a brace on, but eventually it became too much. He opted for surgery which allowed him to be ready for NBA training camps and the draft.
Robinson’s signing brings Kentucky’s pro tally for the year to 5. And if he impresses this month in Las Vegas, he could be the next Cat to carve out a role on a pro roster. Similarly, Andrew Carr will have his shot on a exhibition 10 deal with the Portland Trail Blazers.
We will update if and when Ansley Almonor finds his professional home.