Jason Collins, a trailblazer in the sports world and the first openly gay athlete to play in a major North American sports league, has passed away at the age of 47 following a courageous battle with stage 4 glioblastoma, a severe form of brain cancer. His family confirmed the news on 12 May, recalling the profound impact he had on those around him and the inspiration he provided to countless individuals.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Jason-Collins-1-051226-05dbcce89a1d413b9fb3014c37b5ef87.jpg)
Collins, who hails from Northridge, California, began his professional basketball career in 2001 after being drafted by the Houston Rockets. He made his debut with the New Jersey Nets, reaching the NBA Finals at the conclusion of his first season. Over the course of his career, he represented several teams including the Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, and Washington Wizards.
In September 2025, Collins’ family revealed he was receiving treatment for a brain tumour. By December of that year, Collins publicly disclosed his diagnosis in a poignant essay for ESPN, describing glioblastoma as one of the most aggressive forms of brain cancer. He fought valiantly against the illness, garnering significant support from fans and the wider community throughout his treatment.
Through a statement issued by the NBA, Collins’ family expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming love and support they had received during his illness. They noted, “Jason changed lives in unexpected ways and was an inspiration to all who knew him and to those who admired him from afar,” adding that they would miss him dearly. His family appreciated the dedication of the medical professionals who cared for him during his battle.
Collins made headlines in 2013 when he came out as gay in an essay published by Sports Illustrated. This bold move not only marked a pivotal moment for Collins’ own career but also represented a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ representation in sports. In February 2014, he formally joined the Brooklyn Nets, solidifying his status as the first openly gay athlete in any of the four major North American professional sports leagues. He announced his retirement from basketball later that year.
In reflecting on his decision to come out, Collins shared an impact he never anticipated. He recounted receiving congratulatory calls from global icons such as Oprah Winfrey and then-President Barack Obama. Obama remarked that Collins’ public declaration would “have a positive impact on someone you might not ever meet in your lifetime,” a sentiment that shaped Collins’ view of his role as a pioneer in the sports community.
After retiring, Collins dedicated himself to promoting inclusivity in sports as a global ambassador for basketball, paving the way for future generations. He was recently recognised with the inaugural Bill Walton Global Champion Award at the Green Sports Alliance Summit, although he was unable to attend due to his condition. His twin brother, Jarron Collins, accepted the award on his behalf.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver praised Collins for his significant contributions not just to basketball but also to the broader sports community, stating, “Jason’s impact and influence extended far beyond basketball as he helped make the NBA, WNBA, and larger sports community more inclusive and welcoming.” Silver offered his condolences to Collins’ husband, Brunson Green, and expressed deep sympathy to his family, friends, and colleagues.
Throughout his 13-year career, Collins became known for his exemplary leadership and professionalism. He broke barriers and fostered connections within the community, ensuring that others felt welcomed and supported in their endeavors. His legacy will be cherished not only for his athletic accomplishments but for his kindness and the humanity that characterised his life.
In addition to his brother, Collins leaves behind his loving husband, Brunson, as well as his parents, Portia and Paul Collins. His influence will undoubtedly resonate in both the sporting world and beyond, serving as an enduring symbol of hope and progress.