Thomas Robinson Bids Kansas Farewell

Thomas Robinson is forgoing his senior year to enter to the NBA Draft, but none of the Kansas faithful can blame him after what he has given to the program. Considering all he has overcome, he deserves it. In January 2011, Robinson received a phone call from his nine-year old sister that his mother had died suddenly from a heart attack. The two had been raised by their single mother and were very close to her. What made it even harder was that it came within a three week span of losing their grandfather and grandmother as well. Robinson continued to play basketball, and the University of Kansas helped out the family by covering some of the funeral costs and setting up a scholarship fund for Thomas' sister Jayla.

Robinson vowed to play even better his junior season. He did just that for the Jayhawks. On the season, he averaged 17.9 points per game and 11.8 rebounds per game. Robinson led the nation with 27 double-doubles. At times, Kansas' offense would sputter, but they could always lean on their big man inside. Robinson helped lead the Jayhawks to national runner-up in the NCAA tournament. He had 18 points and 17 rebounds in the championship game against Kentucky.

Robinson became the first unanimous first-team All-American since Blake Griffin. He made his formal announcement of his decision to enter the draft Monday with his sister Jayla and head coach Bill Self by his side. Self faithfully supported Robinson throughout his career and encouraged him to make the decision to leave early. Self believed it was in the best interest of Robinson and his sister. Robinson will likely be a top-five pick in the NBA Draft and will receive the luxurious contract that comes with that. Thomas Robinson will be remembered for all he did on and off the court for the Jayhawks and what he overcame to make it happen.