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Jason Collins, First Openly Gay Active NBA Player, Dies at 47
The basketball world is mourning the loss of former NBA center Jason Collins, who died at the age of 47 after a battle with Stage 4 glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Collins was widely known as the first openly gay active player in NBA history and one of the most influential voices for inclusion in professional sports. ([Reuters][1])
His family confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement released through the NBA, describing Collins as a beloved husband, brother, son, and friend whose courage and compassion inspired millions around the world. ([The Washington Post][2])
Jason Collins made history in 2013 when he publicly came out as gay while still an active NBA player. His announcement, published in a powerful essay for *Sports Illustrated*, became a landmark moment in sports history and broke barriers across major American professional leagues. At the time, few athletes had openly discussed their sexuality during their playing careers, making Collins a symbol of bravery and progress. ([The Washington Post][3])
Born in California, Collins starred at Stanford University alongside his twin brother, Jarron Collins, before entering the NBA in 2001. Over a 13-year professional career, he played for several franchises, including the New Jersey Nets, Boston Celtics, Memphis Grizzlies, Atlanta Hawks, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Washington Wizards. He helped the Nets reach back-to-back NBA Finals appearances in 2002 and 2003 and earned a reputation as a tough defender and respected teammate. ([Reuters][1])
Although Collins was never known as a superstar scorer, his leadership and professionalism earned him admiration throughout the league. Former teammates and coaches frequently praised his intelligence, unselfishness, and locker-room presence. ([Sky Sports][4])
In recent years, Collins remained active as an NBA ambassador and LGBTQ+ advocate. He spoke openly about equality, mental health, and the importance of authenticity in sports. Many younger athletes credited him with helping create a more accepting environment for future generations. ([The Washington Post][3])
Following news of his death, tributes poured in from across the sports world. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver honored Collins for changing lives “through courage, kindness, and humanity,” while fans across social media remembered him as a true pioneer who helped redefine representation in professional athletics. ([Sky Sports][4])
Jason Collins’ legacy extends far beyond basketball. He will be remembered not only for the games he played, but for the doors he opened and the lives he changed through honesty, resilience, and fearless leadership.
At 47, his passing leaves a deep sadness across the NBA community and beyond, but his impact on sports history will never be forgotten. ([CBS News][5])
[1]: https://www.reuters.com/sports/former-nba-player-jason-collins-dies-aged-47-after-cancer-battle-2026-05-12/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Jason Collins, first openly gay active NBA player, dies at 47"
[2]: https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/nba/2026/05/12/jason-collins-dies-nba/ebcdabb4-4e54-11f1-97e7-22c6c29ff0d8_story.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Jason Collins, NBA's first openly gay player, dies at 47 of brain cancer - The Washington Post"
[3]: https://www.washingtonpost.com/obituaries/2026/05/12/jason-collins-first-openly-gay-nba-player-dies-brain-cancer-47/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Jason Collins, a gay trailblazer in the NBA, dies of brain cancer at 47"
[4]: https://www.skysports.com/nba/news/12040/13543379/jason-collins-nbas-first-openly-gay-player-dies-aged-47-of-brain-cancer-his-impact-and-influence-extended-beyond-basketball?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Jason Collins: NBA's first openly gay player dies aged 47 of brain cancer - 'his impact and influence extended beyond basketball' | NBA News | Sky Sports"
[5]: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/jason-collins-nba-first-openly-gay-player-dies-brain-cancer/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Jason Collins, the NBA's first openly gay player, dies at 47 from brain cancer - CBS News"
