Jason Collins, the first openly gay player in the NBA and a symbol of courage for the LGBTQ+ community, has died at the age of 47. The news was confirmed by his family in a statement released early this morning. Tributes have poured in from across the sporting world, with UK figures leading the charge in honouring a man who changed the game forever.
Collins, who played for six NBA teams over 13 seasons, came out as gay in a 2013 essay in Sports Illustrated. At the time, he was the first active male athlete in a major US professional sport to come out. His announcement sent shockwaves through global sport but was met with widespread support. Former President Barack Obama called him a "trailblazer" and praised his bravery.
In the UK, where homophobia in sport remains a deep-seated issue, Collins' legacy is particularly resonant. Football clubs including Manchester United and Arsenal have tweeted tributes, while Stonewall, the UK-based LGBTQ+ charity, said Collins "gave hope to countless young athletes struggling with their identity." The Premier League is expected to hold a minute's silence during this week's matches.
Collins' death comes as the UK continues to grapple with issues of inclusion in sport. A 2022 survey by the charity Sports Pride found that 63% of LGBTQ+ athletes in Britain had experienced discrimination. Collins' openness was seen as a watershed moment, paving the way for others like Jake Daniels, the Blackpool footballer who came out in 2022.
"Jason showed us that you can be both tough and true to yourself," said UK basketball player and Olympic medalist John Amaechi, who came out after retiring. "His courage saved lives."
Collins was known for his defensive skills and his role in the Brooklyn Nets' 2014 playoff run. Off the court, he was a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and spoke at the Democratic National Convention in 2016. His jersey from the 2013-14 season is now in the Basketball Hall of Fame.
The cause of death has not been released, but reports suggest he had been unwell for some time. He is survived by his twin brother, Jarron, also a former NBA player, and his parents.
The loss of Jason Collins is a reminder that progress, while hard-won, remains fragile. In the UK, where the fight for LGBTQ+ equality in sport continues, his legacy will endure as a beacon of what is possible when we refuse to hide.
