Robinson going Minin

Some pooh pooh all star games and showcases as wastes of time vis-a-vis being in the gym and drilling down on skill development. But in Dulani Robinson's case, he's focused on his basketball evolution but the making of an appearance in a national JC event created interest and ultimately resulted in his playing DI basketball this coming season.

The 5-foot-8 Robinson recently announced he was leaving the ultra-successful City College of San Francisco (CCSF) program as a rising sophomore to become a Miner at Texas El Paso, members of Conference USA.

This after a freshman All Coast Conference North season of 11.0 points, on 49% overall shooting, 46% on 128 trey attempts and 85% on foul shots, alongside 66 assists and 33 steals.

In mid-July, Robinson traveled to St. Louis to participate in Jerry Mullens' Super 100 JC Showcase. The UTEP assistant coaches had first noticed Robinson in the Rams' run to the Final Four and were again in attendance. What he displayed in his appearance in The Lou, performing against national talent, cemented their thinking.

The availability of a point, especially one with range, was just too tempting to pass up especially as the UTEP leader in assists in 2012-13 graduated.

It's important to note that Robinson's academic eligibility out of McClymonds High, was critical in his being able to make this move. It's also telling to point out that prior to CCSF, Robinson was a linchpin at the very victorious McClymonds basketball program, so he carries a lineage of winning.

About that association with coming out on top much more often than not, Robinson explained, "It's because of being surrounded by unselfish teammates who want to win more than being individually successful. It's great to be a part of."

Asked to describe his changes since being a high school senior, Robinson offered, "It involves maturity. My work ethic became stronger and [just as important] I've grown as an individual and become more of a people person."

He views his father as his biggest basketball influence because although "he didn't play, he has a great knowledge of the game."

Here's what Robinson will be bringing to his new address: "I'll be a leader, a true point guard and an impact player."

He wished to thank "God first, Coach [Justin] Labagh for the opportunity to showcase myself in St. Louis, Coach [Adam] D'Acquisto who recruited me out of high school, Coach [Ali] Thomas, Coach Phil Handy, my Dad and my family for all they have done for me."

Robinson will be joining junior McKenzie Moore, formerly of College Park and also CCSF, in El Paso. The pair have been friends since middle school and Moore hosted Robinson's visit.

He departs at the end of this month for the Lone Star State.