Mitchell Robinson hasn’t forgotten those who helped him get to where he is today. Before he was an NBA player for the New York Knicks, he was a star player on his high school’s basketball team. Here, he met coach Butch Stockton. From nearly the day they met, he became a mentor to the young athlete. In fact, Butch caught word of the 6’11” high schooler before they even officially met.
Once Butch did meet Robinson, however, he knew that there was something special about him. His wife also took note of this, insisting that she and Butch take the time and effort to help him in whatever ways they could.
“Butch, he’s a special young man,” the former high school coach recalls his wife saying. “And we have to do everything we can to help him reach his full potential.”
They did just that. Over the years, both Butch and his wife supported Robinson as he made his way to the NBA. It’s clear that, once Robinson did make it, he wanted to give back to this sweet couple for all they did. This can be seen in the way he stepped up after Butch’s wife became ill last year.
NBA Star Mitchell Robinson Gives Back to Former High School Basketball Coach in the Sweetest Way
When she was in the hospital, Robinson made sure to visit her every day that he could. During this time, the three of them became closer than ever. This love and care for Butch and his wife only grew after she sadly passed away. With Butch living all alone in Louisiana, Robinson had a heartwarming idea.
Mitchell Robinson invited his high school coach, Butch Stockton, to move in with him after his wife died this year 💙
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 1, 2023
Robinson visited Stockton's wife every day in the hospital when she was sick. What a story 🙏 pic.twitter.com/ng2mdexvvd
“He said ‘Coach, there’s no reason to stay down here in Louisiana anymore. You come to New York with me and enjoy yourself and get your mind back straight because you know how much you loved your wife, and how much I loved your wife'” Butch shares. “And it’s just been a great situation.”
Now, the two of them are officially roommates! You might not expect a former high school coach and a now NBA player to live together, even temporarily, but it’s clear the arrangement is perfect for them both. What an incredible way for this NBA star to give back to a man who helped him reach his potential!
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