Updated: May 13, 2026
In the world of professional sports, few stories carry as much courage and historical weight as that of Jason Collins. The former NBA center made headlines worldwide in 2013 when he became the first active male athlete in one of North America’s four major professional sports leagues to publicly come out as gay. His journey from a respected veteran player to a powerful advocate for inclusion continues to inspire millions.
Collins passed away on May 12, 2026, at age 47 after a courageous battle with Stage 4 glioblastoma, but his impact on sports, LGBTQ+ representation, and authenticity endures.
Table of Contents
Who Was Jason Collins? A Look at His NBA Career
Jason Paul Collins was born on December 2, 1978, and enjoyed a solid 13-year NBA career as a dependable center known for his defense, rebounding, and team-first mentality. Selected 18th overall by the Houston Rockets in the 2001 NBA Draft after a standout college career at Stanford, he played for several teams including the New Jersey/Brooklyn Nets (twice), Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, and Washington Wizards.
Key career highlights include:
- Reaching the NBA Finals twice with the Nets.
- Earning third-team All-American honors at Stanford.
- Building a reputation as a professional, low-maintenance big man who prioritized winning over individual stats.
His on-court presence was steady rather than flashy, but it was off the court where Collins would etch his name in history.
The Moment That Changed Everything: Coming Out in 2013
On April 29, 2013, Jason Collins published a groundbreaking first-person essay in Sports Illustrated. In it, he wrote the now-famous words: “I’m a 34-year-old NBA center. I’m black. And I’m gay.”
This announcement made him the first openly gay active player in the NBA, MLB, NFL, or NHL. The timing was significant — it came after the 2012-13 season, allowing him space to process the decision. Collins later signed with the Brooklyn Nets in 2014 and played in a game against the Lakers, becoming the first openly gay athlete to compete in one of the major North American pro leagues.
He chose jersey number 98 to honor Matthew Shepard, a victim of a notorious anti-gay hate crime. Proceeds from his jersey sales supported LGBTQ+ causes, including the Matthew Shepard Foundation and GLSEN.
Why his coming out mattered:
- It challenged stereotypes in professional sports.
- It opened doors for greater acceptance and visibility.
- It showed that authenticity and elite athletic performance could coexist.
Personal Life: Marriage and Advocacy
Yes, Jason Collins was openly gay. In May 2025, he married film producer Brunson Green, marking a beautiful chapter in his personal journey.
After retiring from playing, Collins became a global NBA Cares Ambassador, traveling the world to promote inclusion and speak on LGBTQ+ issues in sports. His work helped create safer environments for athletes at all levels to be themselves.
Even after his Stage 4 glioblastoma diagnosis in late 2025, Collins faced his illness with the same grace and determination he showed on the court, hoping his treatment journey could help advance research for others.
Jason Collins: Key Facts at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Born | December 2, 1978 |
| Died | May 12, 2026 (Age 47) |
| NBA Career | 13 seasons (2001–2014) |
| Coming Out Date | April 29, 2013 (Sports Illustrated) |
| Historic Achievement | First openly gay active player in major U.S. pro sports |
| Jersey Number | 98 (in honor of Matthew Shepard) |
| Spouse | Brunson Green (married 2025) |
| Legacy Focus | LGBTQ+ advocacy and inclusion in sports |
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy of Courage
Jason Collins didn’t just answer the question “Is Jason Collins gay?” — he transformed it into a platform for change. His bravery in 2013 helped shift conversations around sexuality in sports from fear to acceptance. While his playing days are long over and his life has now ended, the conversations he started continue to resonate.
For young athletes questioning their identity, Collins proved that being true to yourself doesn’t diminish your talent — it amplifies your impact. His story reminds us that progress in sports and society often comes from those willing to stand up first.
In remembering Jason Collins, we celebrate not only a pioneering athlete but a man of quiet strength, deep integrity, and genuine love for the game and humanity. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations to play hard, live authentically, and lead with compassion.