UConn Legend, NBA Star Clifford Robinson Dies At 53

CONNECTICUT — The state of Connecticut and the professional sports world is mourning the death of Clifford Robinson, a legendary University of Connecticut men's basketball player, who died at the age of 53 on Saturday.

The University of Connecticut men's basketball team announced the somber news.

"The UConn Basketball family mourns the loss of a legendary player and person, Clifford Robinson. Our thoughts and prayers are with Cliff’s family at this difficult time. Rest In Peace, Cliff."

No cause of death was released. Robinson is credited with helping to spark UConn's turnaround in men's basketball in the 1980s. He went on to star in NBA.

U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., said "It’s not what Cliff Robinson did for UConn. It’s what he did for Connecticut. I was 14 when he led UConn to the NIT title. As he grew the profile of the program, he grew the pride people had in their state. He showed how college sports can be a force for tremendous good."

Former NBA teammate and Hall-of-Famer Scottie Pippen said "I'm heartbroken to look back at this moment. Cliff Robinson was so important to his Blazers teams and I always enjoyed competing against him. Another brother who left us long before his time. You'll be missed, Uncle Cliffy. RIP"

The Portland Trail Blazers organization released a statement Saturday.

"The Trail Blazers organization is deeply saddened by the passing of Trail Blazers great Cliff Robinson. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Cliff’s family & loved ones. Uncle Cliffy will be greatly missed by the Trail Blazers & all of Rip City."

Robinson also appeared on the CBS reality television show 'Survivor.' "We are saddened to learn of the passing of a beloved member of the Survivor family, NBA Legend, Cliff Robinson. Our thoughts go out to his family during this difficult time."

Jeff Probst, who is the host of 'Survivor' said, "To have Cliff Robinson, an NBA All-Star, play Survivor was a personal highlight for me. And he was one of the classiest people to ever play the game. He treated the other cast members and the entire crew with grace and respect. My condolences go out to his family."