Jason Collins, first openly gay NBA player, dies; family confirms cause of death

• Former NBA player Jason Collins, the first openly gay athlete to play in a major US professional sports league, has died at the age of 47
• His family confirmed that he had been diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer
• The announcement was made through a statement released by the league, marking the end of his battle with the disease
• NBA commissioner Adam Silver also paid tribute to Collins, recognizing his leadership, professionalism, and influence in promoting inclusivity across professional sports

Jason Collins, a former NBA center who made history as the first openly gay man to play in a major United States professional sports league, has died at the age of 47 after battling brain cancer.

His family announced the news in a statement released through the league on Wednesday, May 13 (Philippine time). They expressed their profound grief while revealing glioblastoma, an aggressive and fast-growing form of brain cancer, as the specific medical condition that led to his passing.

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“We are heartbroken to share that Jason Collins, our beloved husband, son, brother and uncle, has died after a valiant fight with glioblastoma.”

The family also reflected on Collins’ life and expressed gratitude for the support they received during his eight-month illness, adding:

“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.”

NBA commissioner Adam Silver also issued a statement honoring Collins, praising his leadership, professionalism, and lasting legacy in promoting inclusivity across the sports world.

“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.”

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Silver then concluded his statement with condolences to Collins’ family and loved ones.

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

Collins made history in 2013 when he publicly came out as gay, later signing with the Brooklyn Nets and becoming the first openly gay player to appear in an NBA game, marking a historic moment in North American professional sports.

Collins joins a number of international sports personalities who have recently been mourned across the globe.

NBA player Brandon Clarke has died at the age of 29. His passing prompted tributes from the Memphis Grizzlies, the NBA, and his management company.

Elden Campbell has died at the age of 57, with tributes pouring in from his family and former NBA teams. He was remembered for his 15-year NBA career, including time with the Lakers and a key role in the Pistons’ 2004 title run.

Source: KAMI.com.gh