Former NBA center Jason Collins, the league’s first openly gay player, has died at age 47 following a battle with Stage 4 glioblastoma.
The basketball world is mourning the loss of Jason Collins, a former NBA veteran whose impact extended far beyond the court. Collins died Tuesday at the age of 47 after battling Stage 4 glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer that he was diagnosed with last year.
Collins made history in 2013 when he publicly revealed he was gay, becoming the first openly gay active player in major American professional sports. His announcement marked a turning point for inclusion in the NBA and across the wider sports world.
Collins became a trailblazer for inclusion in sports
During his 13-year NBA career, Collins played for six franchises, including the New Jersey Nets, Brooklyn Nets and Atlanta Hawks.
He averaged 3.6 points and 3.7 rebounds during his NBA career. One of his most successful stretches came with the New Jersey Nets, where he helped the franchise reach back-to-back NBA Finals appearances. In the 2004-05 season, Collins averaged 6.4 points and 6.1 rebounds, marking the best statistical season of his career.
However, Collins’ greatest legacy came away from basketball. By publicly coming out in 2013, he helped open doors for future athletes and became a powerful symbol of acceptance and representation in professional sports.
Family remembers Collins as an inspiration
Collins’ family confirmed his death Tuesday through a statement released by the NBA.
“Jason changed lives in unexpected ways and was an inspiration to all who knew him and to those who admired him from afar,” the statement read.
The family also thanked doctors, nurses and supporters who stood by Collins throughout his illness.
Just last week, Collins received the inaugural Bill Walton Global Champion Award at the Green Sports Alliance Summit. Because he was too ill to attend, his twin brother and former NBA player Jarron Collins accepted the honor on his behalf.
While accepting the award, Jarron Collins delivered an emotional tribute.
“I told my brother this before I came here: He’s the bravest, strongest man I’ve ever known,” he said.
Adam Silver honors Collins’ lasting impact
NBA commissioner Adam Silver also paid tribute to Collins, praising both his courage and character.
“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 in a statement.
He also described Collins as a leader whose kindness and humanity touched countless people throughout the league.
Silver extended condolences on behalf of the NBA to Collins’ husband, Brunson, as well as his family, friends and colleagues.
Jason Collins leaves a lasting legacy
Although Collins’ playing career ended years ago, his influence never faded. His decision to live openly helped reshape conversations around inclusion in professional sports and inspired athletes across multiple leagues.
Today, Collins is remembered not only as a former NBA player, but also as a groundbreaking figure whose courage changed the sports world for future generations.
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