Jason Collins, the NBA's first openly gay player and a true pioneer for inclusion, has passed away at the age of 47 after a courageous battle with an aggressive brain tumor.
His family announced Tuesday that Collins succumbed to Stage 4 glioblastoma, a condition with an extremely low survival rate, following an eight-month fight. The news has sent shockwaves through the sports world, where Collins is remembered not just for his 13-season NBA career, but for the historic moment in 2013 when he publicly came out as gay—a revelation that came near the end of his playing days but sparked a lasting legacy of acceptance and courage.
"Jason changed lives in unexpected ways and was an inspiration to all who knew him and to those who admired him from afar," his family shared in a statement released through the NBA. "We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers over the past eight months and for the exceptional medical care Jason received from his doctors and nurses. Our family will miss him dearly."
Collins' journey was one of quiet resilience. On the court, he was a dependable big man who averaged 3.6 points and 3.7 rebounds over his career, helping the New Jersey Nets reach two NBA Finals and posting a personal best of 6.4 points and 6.1 rebounds in the 2004-05 season. But it was his bravery off the court that truly defined him.
Just last week, Collins was honored with the inaugural Bill Walton Global Champion Award at the Green Sports Alliance Summit. Too ill to attend, his twin brother and former NBA player Jarron Collins accepted the award on his behalf, delivering a heartfelt tribute. "I told my brother this before I came here: He's the bravest, strongest man I've ever known," Jarron said, his words resonating with everyone in the room.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver echoed those sentiments, praising Collins' far-reaching impact. "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," Silver said. "He exemplified outstanding leadership and professionalism throughout his 13-year NBA career and in his dedicated work as an NBA Cares Ambassador. Jason will be remembered not only for breaking barriers, but also for the kindness and humanity that defined his life and touched so many others."
As we reflect on his legacy, it's clear that Jason Collins was more than a player—he was a symbol of strength and authenticity. His story reminds us that true courage often comes from being yourself, both on and off the court. Our thoughts are with his husband, Brunson, and his entire family during this difficult time.