Updated: May 13, 2026
Jason Collins made history as the first openly gay active player in the NBA. His remarkable journey was deeply rooted in the unconditional love and guidance of his parents, Portia and Paul Collins. In this post, we explore their influence on his life, career, and courageous coming-out story.
The Collins family exemplifies strength, resilience, and acceptance. Even after Jason’s passing on May 12, 2026, following a battle with Stage 4 glioblastoma, their story continues to inspire families worldwide.
Table of Contents
Who Are Jason Collins’ Parents?
Portia and Paul Collins raised twin sons Jason and Jarron in Northridge, California. They built a loving, balanced household that valued education as much as athletics.
Key facts about the Collins family:
- Portia Collins: A dedicated mother who emphasized academics and cultural pride. She famously said they weren’t raising NBA stars but young men who would excel in life.
- Paul Collins: A supportive father whose immediate response to Jason’s news was one of love and acceptance.
- Family Heritage: African-American roots with strong ties to Los Angeles. The twins attended Harvard-Westlake School, where they dominated on the basketball court while maintaining strong grades.
- Extended Family: Aunt Teri Jackson, a San Francisco Superior Court judge, was the first family member Jason confided in.
Their parenting style focused on character over fame. Portia and Paul encouraged hard work, humility, and knowing one’s roots—whether in elite schools or South-Central Los Angeles neighborhoods.
Raising Future NBA Stars: Values and Upbringing
Portia and Paul Collins created an environment where basketball was important but not everything. The twins won two California state titles in high school and later played at Stanford University. Yet their parents prioritized education and personal growth.
- Both sons graduated from prestigious Harvard-Westlake School with excellent academics alongside their athletic success.
- The family stressed pride in African-American heritage and community.
- Paul and Portia attended games and supported their sons’ dreams without pushing unrealistic expectations.
This balanced approach helped Jason develop into a solid NBA center known for defense and teamwork over 13 seasons with teams like the Nets, Celtics, and Wizards.
Jason’s Coming Out: A Family’s Journey to Acceptance
One of the most touching chapters involves how Jason revealed his truth to his parents. In summer 2012, he invited them over and simply said he was gay. Paul’s response was immediate and heartfelt: “I love you, and if you’re gay, that’s OK.”
Portia needed time to process the news, as any parent might when lifelong expectations shift. In a heartfelt Oprah interview, Paul shared the adjustment from imagining a traditional future for his son to fully embracing who Jason was.
Family Reactions:
- Aunt Teri was the first confidante.
- Twin brother Jarron offered unwavering support.
- Parents ultimately became vocal advocates for their son’s happiness and authenticity.
This openness helped Jason come out publicly in Sports Illustrated in 2013, wearing number 98 in honor of Matthew Shepard. His family’s backing was crucial during that landmark moment.
The Enduring Legacy of the Collins Family
Family Information Table
| Family Member | Relation to Jason | Notable Details |
|---|---|---|
| Portia Collins | Mother | Emphasized education & cultural pride |
| Paul Collins | Father | Immediate acceptance upon coming out |
| Jarron Collins | Twin Brother | Also played in NBA; assistant coach |
| Teri Jackson | Aunt | Judge; first family member told |
| Brunson Green | Husband | Married in 2025 |
The Collins parents showed that love transcends expectations. Their story reminds us that supportive families create space for authenticity. Jason’s bravery, backed by Portia and Paul, paved the way for greater inclusion in sports.
Conclusion
Jason Collins parents, Portia and Paul Collins, represent the quiet strength behind a trailblazer. They raised confident, grounded sons while modeling love, adaptability, and acceptance when it mattered most. Their journey—from proud basketball parents to advocates for their gay son—offers powerful lessons for families everywhere.
In an era still navigating conversations around identity, the Collins family stands as a beacon of unconditional support. Jason’s legacy lives on through his impact on the NBA and the courage he inspired, thanks in no small part to the foundation built by his remarkable parents.