Robinson addressing the crowd after accepting his awards. Michael Bushnell
Robinson addressing the crowd after accepting his awards. Michael Bushnell

By Michael Bushnell
Northeast News
April 30, 2014

KANSAS CITY, Missouri – Don’t let Daylen Robinson’s easy going demeanor fool you.

This Northeast High School alumnus is a driven young man. Things could have been much different for Robinson, a 2010 graduate and standout basketball athlete. Growing up on the mean streets of Northeast is no easy task these days and Robinson was tempted every step of the way with the lure of street life.

Thankfully, coaches and teachers at Northeast High School recognized his potential and steered him away from the street to the basketball court. The rest, they say, is history.

This year, Robinson led the University of Central Missouri’s basketball team to a Division II National Championship. On Friday, April 25, Robinson was honored during a reception at Northeast High School sponsored by the Alumni Association N Club and the Kansas City School District for his achievement both on and off the court. The awards were presented by N-Club representatives Sue Ann Slavens-Erb and Jerry Slavens. Robinson was humbled by the experience and encouraged those students in attendance to stay in school.

“The coaches and teachers here at Northeast believed in me and I truly appreciate that,” Robinson said. “Stay in school. Education is the most valuable thing out there today.”

Robinson will graduate from UCM this spring with a degree in business and marketing. He is looking at professional basketball opportunities in both the United States and in Europe.

Don McMurtrey, Daylen Robinson and Steve Schottel, Central High School Athletic Director, pictured together during Friday night's award celebration. Submitted Photo
Don McMurtrey, Daylen Robinson and Steve Schottel, Central High School Athletic Director, pictured together during Friday night’s award celebration. Submitted Photo
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The awards Robinson received included special achievement awards and a print out of the edition of the Northeast News that prominently featured Robinson on the cover. Michael Bushnell