Jason Collins, pioneering NBA figure, passes away at 47
Jason Collins, the first openly gay NBA player, has died at 47 after battling brain cancer. His family described his fight with glioblastoma as “valiant” and praised his courage. Collins made history for LGBTQ visibility in sports and was widely respected for his impact both on and off the court. Tributes have poured in from across the basketball community, highlighting his legacy of inclusion and kindness.
Match highlights
- Jason Collins revealed in 2025 that he had been diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumor.
- He made history in 2013 by becoming the first active male athlete in a major American professional team sport to publicly come out as gay.
- Over his 13-season NBA career, Collins played for six teams, including the New Jersey Nets, Atlanta Hawks, and Boston Celtics.
- After retiring in 2014, he was named among Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people and continued advocacy for inclusion in sports.
- NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and the Brooklyn Nets praised Collins for his courage, kindness, and lasting influence on the sport.
