Jason Collins, the NBA's first openly gay player and a pioneer for inclusion, has died after an eight-month battle with an aggressive brain tumor, his family announced.
Jason Collins, the NBA's first openly gay player and a significant figure for inclusion and an ambassador for the league, has passed away after an eight-month battle with an aggressive brain tumor. His family released a statement through the NBA, highlighting his inspirational impact and expressing gratitude for the outpouring of love and medical care. Just last week, Collins was honored with the inaugural Bill Walton Global Champion Award, accepted by his twin brother Jarron due to his illness. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver praised Collins' profound influence beyond basketball, noting his role in fostering a more inclusive sports community and his leadership throughout his 13-year NBA career and as an NBA Cares Ambassador. Collins, who averaged 3.6 points and 3.7 rebounds, notably helped the New Jersey Nets reach two NBA Finals. He made history in April 2013 by publicly revealing his sexuality in a Sports Illustrated article, becoming the first openly gay active player in a major American team sport. His decision garnered widespread support from figures like Kobe Bryant, former President Bill Clinton, and Joe Kennedy III. Collins' quiet advocacy was also reflected in his choice to wear jersey No. 98, a nod to Matthew Shepard, a gay college student killed in 1998. An honorable mention All-American at Stanford, Collins was drafted 18th overall in the 2001 NBA draft.
