What happened to Duncan Robinson’s brother? How Pistons guard has honored sibling's legacy after 2025 death

What happened to Duncan Robinson’s brother?

Robinson’s brother, Eli, died of suicide on April 30, 2025. He was 31 years old.

Eli dealt with substance abuse and schizophrenia during his life. His sister, Marta Robinson Day — a licensed mental health counselor — explained that Eli experienced “multiple episodes that were in line with somebody that has schizophrenia” in a television spot for ESPN that aired on May 1.

He left an indelible mark on his brother, one that remains one year on.

"Eli was my inspiration," Robinson said at his brother's memorial service on May 13, 2025. "He was who I wanted to be and he was how I wanted to be. Eli, in all the ways you inspire me, with your sobriety and how you wrestled with the boldness that most of us can't even comprehend."

Robinson told ESPN that he still is finding ways to honor his brother’s legacy. Every day, he carries a pendant that features Eli’s sobriety date.

Robinson’s family also launched a foundation in his honor. The Robinson Family Foundation supports families experiencing similar challenges. It also attempts to raise awareness for mental health and the potential link between marijuana use and psychosis.

Robinson Day said the family believes early marijuana use played a role in Eli’s struggles.

"He (Eli) was having delusions, he was hearing voices," Robinson Day said. "There were multiple episodes that were in line with the symptoms of somebody that has schizophrenia. ... What they're finding in research is that if you use marijuana in a developing brain, which is considered up to the age of 25, you're at a higher risk of developing psychosis later on."