New York – Former NBA player Jason Collins, who made history by being the first athlete to come out as openly gay in a men’s professional league in the United States, is currently undergoing treatment for a brain tumor, according to an official statement issued this Thursday by the league. The NBA has reported that both Collins and his family are grateful for the support and prayers received. In addition, they have requested privacy to be able to focus on Jason’s health and well-being during these difficult times. Collins, who played as a center and measured 2.13 meters, had an outstanding career in the NBA, playing for 13 seasons. For eight seasons he defended the colors of the New Jersey/Brooklyn Nets. He was also part of the Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves and Washington Wizards. In total, Collins played in 735 games between 2001 and 2014, achieving averages of 3.6 points and 3.7 rebounds per game. He was selected 18th in the 2001 draft by the Houston Rockets, after excelling at Stanford University alongside his twin brother Jarron. Collins announced his retirement in 2014. A year before his retirement, Collins made history by publicly revealing his homosexuality in a Sports Illustrated article, becoming the first active player to do so in the four major men’s sports leagues in North America.
“I wasn’t looking to be the first, but since I am, I’m glad to start the conversation,” Collins wrote then, who has served as an NBA ambassador since his retirement.
Jason CollinsCurrently, at 46 years old, Collins is married to producer Brunson Green, whom he married earlier this year. The news of his illness has generated a wave of support and shock in the world of basketball and sports in general. Collins is remembered not only for his performance on the court, but also for his courage in paving the way for greater inclusion and diversity in professional sports.
