Basic Information
| Full Name | Craig Malcolm Robinson |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 21, 1962 |
| Place of Birth | Calumet Park, Illinois |
| Education | Princeton University (B.A., 1983) University of Chicago (M.B.A., 1992) |
| Professions | Bond Trader, College Basketball Coach, NBA Executive, Broadcaster, Author |
| Notable Family | Michelle LaVaughn Robinson (sister), Barack Obama (brother-in-law) |
Early Life and Education
Born and raised on Chicago’s South Shore, Craig Robinson was instilled early on with a dedication to both scholarship and character by his father, Fraser C Robinson Iii, a precinct captain and water-filtration worker who battled multiple sclerosis throughout much of his adult life. Demonstrating academic excellence, Robinson earned admission to Princeton University, where he majored in sociology and anchored the Tigers men’s basketball team as a forward from 1979 to 1983. After graduating, he pursued financial studies, completing an M.B.A. in Finance at the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business in 1992.
Basketball Playing Career
At Princeton, Robinson was known for his unselfish play and high basketball IQ, traits that would later define his coaching philosophy. Over four seasons, he contributed to a 64–58 overall record, with notable victories against Ivy League rivals. His on‐court leadership foreshadowed his eventual roles as talent evaluator and mentor.
Coaching Career Highlights
| Position | Team | Years | Record |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assistant Coach | Northwestern University | 2000–2006 | –– |
| Head Coach | Brown University | 2006–2008 | 30–30 (Ivy League Coach of the Year 2006–07) |
| Head Coach | Oregon State University | 2008–2014 | 94–100 (Four postseason berths) |
Robinson’s ascent in the collegiate ranks began with six seasons as an assistant under Bill Carmody, during which Northwestern secured its first NCAA appearance in 2006. As head coach at Brown, he coached the Bears to 30 wins across two seasons—an Ivy milestone—and earned Ivy League Coach of the Year in 2006–07. In 2008, he took over at Oregon State, inheriting a program that had gone 0–18 in Pac-10 play; by 2014, he was the fourth‐winningest coach in school history and led the Beavers to four consecutive postseason tournaments.
NBA Executive Roles
After leaving the collegiate sidelines, Robinson transitioned to the professional arena. For the 2016–17 season, he served as Vice President of Player and Organizational Development with the Milwaukee Bucks, focusing on player mentorship and organizational culture. From 2017 until 2020, he held a similar executive role with the New York Knicks, developing young talent and advising front office leadership on character evaluation and team chemistry.
Broadcasting and Media Presence
In October 2014, ESPN added Robinson to its college basketball analyst roster for ESPNU, where his insights on recruitment, player development, and game strategy have been widely praised. His engaging style and genuine candor have made him a favorite among viewers seeking depth beyond Xs and Os.
Authorship
Robinson’s memoir, A Game of Character: A Family Journey from Chicago’s Southside to the Ivy League and Beyond, was published in April 2010. The book chronicles his family’s struggles and triumphs, blending personal anecdotes with lessons on leadership, resilience, and integrity.
Public Image and Influence
Leveraging his family’s legacy—most notably as Michelle Obama’s brother and Barack Obama’s brother-in-law—Robinson maintains a positive public image rooted in humility and service. In March 2025, he and Michelle co-launched the podcast IMO with Michelle Obama & Craig Robinson under the Higher Ground production banner, featuring guests such as Issa Rae and Dwyane Wade. The podcast has been lauded for its candid conversations on hope, character, and social change.
Active on social platforms under @craigmalrob, he shares coaching insights, entrepreneurial ventures, and family moments. Major outlets like People frequently turn to Robinson for his perspectives on sportsmanship and leadership.
Net Worth Estimate
Though Robinson’s exact net worth remains private, his diverse career—in finance, coaching, executive management, broadcasting, and podcasting—indicates a substantial financial profile. Unlike his namesake in entertainment, whose net worth is publicly reported, Robinson has chosen to keep his personal finances out of the limelight.
Recent Highlights
- June 2025: Staged a “retirement” prank as part of an AT&T marketing campaign at San Diego Comic-Con, unveiling “CraigAI,” an AI alarm clock for small businesses—an event that went viral after even his father was fooled.
- April 2025: Recalled assessing Barack Obama’s character via pickup basketball on Kelly Ripa’s Let’s Talk Off Camera, underscoring his unique family role.
- March 2025: Launched IMO with Michelle Obama & Craig Robinson, delivering episodes that blend personal narrative with high-profile interviews.
Legacy and Family
Craig Robinson’s journey reflects the values instilled by his parents, Fraser and Marian Robinson, on Chicago’s South Side. His success in multiple arenas—academia, athletics, finance, and media—serves as a testament to the power of character, mentorship, and family support in shaping leaders.
FAQ
What is Craig Robinson best known for?
He is best known for his successful collegiate coaching career at Brown and Oregon State, his executive roles in the NBA, and his work as a broadcaster and author.
How is Craig Robinson related to former President Barack Obama?
Craig Robinson is Barack Obama’s brother-in-law through his sister, Michelle LaVaughn Robinson Obama.
What is the title of Craig Robinson’s memoir?
His memoir is titled A Game of Character: A Family Journey from Chicago’s Southside to the Ivy League and Beyond, published in April 2010.
Where can I listen to the podcast with Michelle Obama & Craig Robinson?
The podcast IMO with Michelle Obama & Craig Robinson is available on all major streaming platforms and produced by Higher Ground.
What recent marketing stunt did Craig Robinson pull?
In June 2025, he announced a fake retirement as part of an AT&T campaign to launch “CraigAI,” an AI alarm clock, revealed at San Diego Comic-Con.
