JASON Collins, the NBA’s first openly gay player, has died at 47 after a tough battle with brain cancer, the league confirmed today.
The basketball world paid tribute as NBA commissioner Adam Silver praised Collins’ role in making sports more inclusive and welcoming.
Silver said, “Jason Collins’ impact and influence extended far beyond basketball as he helped make the NBA, WNBA and larger sports community more inclusive and welcoming for future generations.”
He added, “He exemplified outstanding leadership and professionalism throughout his 13-year NBA career and in his dedicated work as an NBA Cares Ambassador.”
Collins will be remembered not only for breaking barriers but also for his kindness and humanity that touched many lives.
The former NBA centre played for several teams including the Nets, Grizzlies, Timberwolves, Hawks, Celtics, and Wizards during his career.
His most notable moment came in 2013 when he publicly came out in a Sports Illustrated essay, declaring, “I’m a 34-year-old NBA center. I’m Black and I’m gay.”
This announcement made him the first openly gay active male athlete in any of the four major professional men’s sports leagues, earning support from stars like Kobe Bryant, President Obama, and Oprah Winfrey.
Jason’s twin brother Jarron also played in the NBA.
In November, Collins revealed to ESPN that he had been diagnosed with stage 4 glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive brain cancers.
Despite seeking experimental treatment overseas, the cancer returned, and Collins passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family.
His family said, “Jason changed lives in unexpected ways and was an inspiration to all who knew him and to those who admired him from afar.”
They expressed gratitude for the love and prayers received during his illness and for the exceptional medical care he was given.
Jason Collins leaves behind a legacy of courage and leadership that reshaped sports culture forever.