Jason Collins, the former NBA center who made history as the first openly gay athlete to compete in any of the four major North American professional sports leagues, has died at age 47 after what his family described as a “valiant fight with glioblastoma.”
Collins, a 13‑year NBA veteran and later an NBA Cares Ambassador, was widely regarded as a groundbreaking figure whose influence extended far beyond basketball. His decision to come out publicly in 2013 marked a watershed moment for LGBTQ+ visibility in professional sports.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver honored Collins’ legacy in a statement released Wednesday, praising his leadership, courage, and humanity.
“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. “Jason will be remembered not only for breaking barriers, but also for the kindness and humanity that defined his life.”
Collins is survived by his husband, Brunson, along with his parents, siblings, nieces, and nephews. In a statement shared through the NBA, his family expressed deep gratitude for the support they received during his illness.
“We are heartbroken to share that Jason Collins, our beloved husband, son, brother and uncle, has died after a valiant fight with glioblastoma,” the family said in their statement. “Jason changed lives in unexpected ways and was an inspiration to all who knew him and to those who admired him from afar.”
A Career of Quiet Strength and Historic Courage
Collins played for several teams during his NBA career, including the New Jersey Nets, Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, Washington Wizards, and Brooklyn Nets. Known for his defensive toughness and professionalism, he became a respected veteran presence in locker rooms across the league.
But it was his decision to publicly come out – and later sign with the Brooklyn Nets as an openly gay player – that cemented his place in sports history. His No. 98 jersey became a symbol of inclusion and sold out across the league.
Collins’ LGBTQ+ legacy is, at its core, a story about visibility, courage, and the quiet but seismic power of saying this is who I am in a space where no one before him had. His impact didn’t end with basketball; it reshaped the cultural landscape of professional sports and expanded what was possible for countless athletes who came after him.
As an NBA Cares Ambassador, Collins visited schools, community centers, and Pride events, often emphasizing that acceptance in sports begins with acceptance in everyday life.
Collins’ presence in the league helped accelerate a cultural shift already underway. His teammates, coaches, and opponents publicly supported him, sending a message that the NBA was ready to evolve.
His No. 98 jersey – chosen in honor of Matthew Shepard – became one of the league’s top sellers, a symbol of solidarity and remembrance.
Collins didn’t just break a barrier – he changed the expectations of what an athlete can be. His story continues to inspire athletes, activists, and young people who see in him a blueprint for authenticity and resilience. His impact will continue to echo in locker rooms, front offices, and communities for generations.
