Navy Star Denied Early Release

Navy Secretary William L. Ball III today rejected a request from Ensign--and basketball star--David Robinson to be released from active duty six months early to start his pro basketball career.

Robinson, a 7-foot-1 All-American while at the Naval Academy who played on America’s Olympic basketball team this summer, had asked to be released from active duty now in order to begin playing with the San Antonio Spurs where he has an eight-year $26-million contract. Robinson, now assigned to the Navy’s Trident submarine base at Kings Bay, Ga., said through his agent: “I respect the secretary’s decision and appreciate their time and consideration. I’ve enjoyed my service in the U.S. Navy and look forward to serving the remaining six months on active duty and six years of reserve duty with pride.”