Jason Collins Dies: NBA’s First Openly Gay Player Was 47

Jason Collins, the NBA’s first openly gay player, has died following a battle with brain cancer. He was 47.

Collins made history in 2013 when he publicly came out during his professional basketball career, becoming the first openly gay active player in the NBA.

A statement issued on May 12 on behalf of Collins’ family read: “We are heartbroken to share that Jason Collins, our beloved husband, son, brother, and uncle, has died after a valiant fight with glioblastoma. Jason changed lives in unexpected ways and was an inspiration to all who knew him and to those who admired him from afar. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers over the past eight months, and for the exceptional medical care Jason received from his doctors and nurses. Our family will miss him dearly.”

The following statement was issued today on behalf of the family of Jason Collins:

“We are heartbroken to share that Jason Collins, our beloved husband, son, brother and uncle, has died after a valiant fight with glioblastoma. Jason changed lives in unexpected ways and was an… https://t.co/ggzKT3cbUo

— NBA (@NBA) May 12, 2026

Collins revealed to ESPN that he had been diagnosed with Stage 4 glioblastoma back in November, and while he was receiving treatment for the disease, the cancer returned. According to the publication, Collins died peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family.

Collins came out as gay in a May 6, 2013, Sports Illustrated cover story, becoming the first publicly gay professional athlete to play in any of the four main North American sports leagues. “I’m a 34-year-old NBA center. I’m black. And I’m gay,” began the article.  “No one wants to live in fear. I’ve always been scared of saying the wrong thing. I don’t sleep well. I never have. But each time I tell another person, I feel stronger and sleep a little more soundly.”

“The most you can do is stand up for what you believe in. I’m much happier since coming out to my friends and family. Being genuine and honest makes me happy,” wrote Collins in the milestone article.

Collins retired in 2014 after a 13-year career that saw him play for the New Jersey Nets, Memphis, Minnesota, Atlanta, Boston, and Washington. Collins was also a dedicated NBA Cares Ambassador, using his platform to promote inclusion and champion LGBTQ+ rights.

“When I chose to come out, there was no scandal or anything,” Collins told ESPN. “This was like, I feel that I am good enough to play in the NBA, and by the way, I’m gay. Just so everyone knows, cards on the table, this is where I am.”

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement regarding the passing of Collins: “Jason Collins’ impact and influence extended far beyond basketball as he helped make the NBA, WNBA, and larger sports community more inclusive and welcoming for future generations. He exemplified outstanding leadership and professionalism throughout his 13-year NBA career and in his dedicated work as an NBA Cares Ambassador. Jason will be remembered not only for breaking barriers but also for the kindness and humanity that defined his life and touched so many others.”

“On behalf of the NBA, I send my heartfelt condolences to Jason’s husband, Brunson, and his family, friends, and colleagues across our leagues,” continued Silver.

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