Jason Collins, the former Nets center who made history as the NBA's first openly gay player, is being remembered as a true pioneer following his passing at age 47 after a battle with brain cancer.
Standing 7 feet tall, Collins was a key contributor to the Nets teams that earned back-to-back NBA Finals appearances in 2002 and 2003. Over his 13-season career, he suited up for six teams, appearing in 735 games and starting 477 of them. While his on-court stats tell one story, his legacy extends far beyond the hardwood.
When Collins came out as gay in a 2013 Sports Illustrated cover story, he became the first openly gay active player in any of North America's four major professional sports leagues. At the time, he was a 34-year-old free agent, and his announcement sent shockwaves through the sports world.
"I didn't set out to be the first openly gay athlete playing in a major American team sport. But since I am, I'm happy to start the conversation," Collins wrote then. "I wish I wasn't the kid in the classroom raising his hand and saying, 'I'm different.' If I had my way, someone else would have already done this. Nobody has, which is why I'm raising my hand."
The response was immediate and powerful. President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama praised his courage, as did Kobe Bryant and countless others. Now, his former teammates and league officials are reflecting on the impact he made both on and off the court.
Jason Kidd, who played alongside Collins on the Nets from 2001 to 2008, called him a "pioneer." "He had courage like you've never seen," Kidd wrote. "He was an incredible teammate. And having him in Brooklyn at the start of my coaching journey meant so much. Those who knew him were blessed to call him a friend. You are already missed my brother. Rest in power."
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver noted that Collins made sports more "welcoming for future generations," while Ellen DeGeneres said his bravery "changed the game" and "will never be forgotten."
Drafted in the first round in 2001, Collins spent his first seven seasons with the Nets, returning for his final campaign in 2013-14. He also played for the Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, and Washington Wizards.
Collins' courage in breaking down barriers and his message of inclusivity will continue to inspire athletes and fans for generations to come. His legacy is a reminder that true impact isn't measured in points or rebounds, but in the lives you touch and the doors you open for others.