NEW YORK (BN24) — Jason Collins, the first openly gay player in NBA history, has been diagnosed with a brain tumor, the league confirmed Thursday. The 46-year-old former center, who made history both on and off the court, is currently undergoing treatment as he and his family request privacy during this difficult time.
The NBA made the announcement on behalf of Collins and his loved ones, asking fans for support and prayers. No additional details were disclosed regarding the nature or severity of the tumor, with the league emphasizing Collins’ need to focus on his health and recovery.
Collins played 13 seasons in the NBA after being selected 18th overall in the 2001 NBA Draft by the then-New Jersey Nets. He went on to play for six teams — including the Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, and Washington Wizards — before returning to the Nets after their move to Brooklyn. He officially retired from the league in November 2014.
In 2013, Collins became the first active NBA player to come out publicly as gay, a watershed moment for professional sports. His announcement was met with widespread support from teammates, fans, and notable figures in and beyond the league, including the late Kobe Bryant and then-NBA Commissioner David Stern.
Collins famously wore the number 98 jersey during his time with the Brooklyn Nets in honor of Matthew Shepard, a 21-year-old college student whose 1998 murder became a pivotal moment in the fight against anti-LGBTQ+ hate crimes. The tribute was a powerful personal statement and a symbol of solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community.
This past May, Collins married his longtime partner, film producer Brunson Green, in a private ceremony, marking another milestone in his personal journey as an advocate for inclusion and equality.
While the news of his diagnosis has shocked fans and supporters around the world, messages of hope and encouragement have poured in across social media, reflecting the impact Collins has had both as a professional athlete and as a prominent voice for LGBTQ+ representation in sports.
