Jason Collins, the first openly gay active player in NBA history, has died at the age of 47 following a battle with brain cancer, his family confirmed Tuesday. Collins had been diagnosed with Stage 4 glioblastoma, an aggressive and fast-moving form of brain cancer.
Collins made sports history in 2013 when he publicly came out as gay in a first-person essay published by Sports Illustrated while still an active NBA player. His announcement marked a groundbreaking moment in American professional sports, making him the first openly gay active athlete in one of North America’s four major men’s professional leagues.
In a statement released through the National Basketball Association, Collins’ family said they were “heartbroken” by his passing and praised his courage throughout his illness. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver described Collins as a figure whose impact “extended far beyond basketball,” adding that he helped create a more inclusive environment for future generations of athletes.
Standing seven feet tall, Collins enjoyed a 13-season NBA career after being selected 18th overall in the 2001 NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets before being traded to the New Jersey Nets. He later played for the Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, Washington Wizards and Brooklyn Nets. Collins helped lead the Nets to back-to-back NBA Finals appearances in 2002 and 2003 alongside stars like Jason Kidd.
Although never known as a high-scoring star, Collins earned widespread respect as a tough defensive center, valued teammate and locker-room leader. Beyond basketball, he became an influential advocate for LGBTQ inclusion and acceptance in sports.
Tributes poured in from across the sports world following news of his death. Former teammates, coaches and civil rights organizations praised Collins for his courage, kindness and lasting influence on professional sports culture. Before an NBA playoff game Tuesday night, a moment of silence was held in his honor.
Collins is survived by his husband, film producer , along with his twin brother and former NBA player
athlete”,”Jarron Collins”,”Former NBA player and coach”] and other family members.
