Jason Collins, a longtime NBA center who became the first active player in a major U.S. men's professional sports league to publicly come out as gay, has died. He was 47.
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Collins died Tuesday following months of treatment for glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, according to a statement released by the NBA on behalf of his family.
"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 said. "Our family will miss him dearly."
Collins made history in 2013 when he announced he was gay in an essay published in Sports Illustrated. At the time, he was a veteran NBA player and the first active athlete in the NBA, NFL, MLB or NHL to publicly come out.
His announcement drew widespread support across the sports world and beyond, including from then-President Barack Obama and fellow players.
Collins played 13 seasons in the NBA from 2001 to 2014, appearing for six teams. Known for his defense and leadership, he later served as an ambassador for the league.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said Collins' impact extended beyond basketball.
"He helped make the NBA, WNBA and larger sports community more inclusive and welcoming for future generations," Silver said.
A standout at Stanford alongside his twin brother, Jarron, Collins remained active in advocacy work following his playing career.
He is survived by his husband, Brunson Green, and family members.
