Jason Collins, who was the first active openly gay player in NBA history, died on Tuesday after a battle with brain cancer, the league announced. He was 47.
"We are heartbroken to share that Jason Collins, our beloved husband, son, brother and uncle, has died after a valiant fight with glioblastoma,"
"Jason changed lives in unexpected ways and was an inspiration to all who knew him. And to those who admired him from afar. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers over the past eight months. And for the exceptional medical care Jason received from his doctors and nurses. Our family will miss him dearly."
Collins was drafted by the Houston Rockets with the No. 18 overall pick in the 2001 NBA Draft. Through 13 years in the association, Collins suited up for six different franchises.
The former Stanford standout averaged 3.6 points and 3.7 rebounds per game.
Unfortunately, he was diagnosed with Stage 4 glioblastoma, one of the deadliest forms of brain cancer, in 2025.
Collins made history when he announced he was gay in a 2013 Sports Illustrated cover story. The 7-foot center was the first publicly gay athlete to play in any of the four main North American sports leagues.
"When I chose to come out, there was no scandal or anything," Collins told ESPN in November. "This was like, I feel that I am good enough to play in the NBA. And by the way, I'm gay. Just so everyone knows. [The] cards on the table. This is where I am."
"Jason Collins' impact and influence extended far beyond basketball. He helped make the NBA, WNBA and larger sports community more inclusive and welcoming for future generations," Silver said in a statement. "He exemplified outstanding leadership and professionalism throughout his 13-year NBA career and in his dedicated work as an NBA Cares Ambassador. Jason will be remembered not only for breaking barriers, but also for the kindness and humanity that defined his life and touched so many others."
