The NBA community is grappling with another tragedy as former player Jason Collins has passed away at just 47 years old.
Jason Collins, the first openly gay athlete to play in a major U.S. professional sports league, died from complications of a brain tumor, his family confirmed in a statement released through the NBA.
“We are heartbroken,” the family said. Collins “changed the lives of many” and served as a role model and inspiration for countless individuals.
The former center revealed in September that he was being treated for a brain tumor. In December, he told ESPN that he had been diagnosed with a fast-growing glioblastoma. With support from his husband, Brunson Green, as well as family and friends, he underwent treatment involving medication, radiation, and chemotherapy.
This is the second death to hit the NBA in a short span. Earlier, the Memphis Grizzlies announced that player Brandon Clarke died at age 29.
Collins made history in 2013 when he publicly came out in a Sports Illustrated article. He played 13 seasons in the NBA for the New Jersey/Brooklyn Nets, Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, and Washington Wizards. After his announcement, he appeared in 22 games for the Brooklyn Nets the following season.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver remembered Collins as an “extraordinary” individual who made basketball and sports “more open and inclusive.” He will be remembered not only as a pioneer but also for his “kindness and humanity.”
