Jason Collins, known not only for his time in the NBA but for breaking barriers as the league’s first openly gay player, is now facing a serious health challenge. The NBA announced Thursday that Collins is undergoing treatment for a brain tumor.
“Jason and his family welcome your support and prayers and kindly ask for privacy as they dedicate their attention to Jason’s health and well-being,” read the official statement from the league.
Standing 7 feet tall, Collins played 13 seasons in the NBA, spending the majority of his career with the New Jersey and Brooklyn Nets. He also had stints with the Hawks, Celtics, Grizzlies, Timberwolves, and Wizards. Selected 18th overall by the Houston Rockets in 2001, he averaged 3.6 points and 3.7 rebounds over 735 games.
In 2013, Collins made headlines when he came out publicly in a Sports Illustrated article, becoming the first active male athlete in a major American pro league to do so.
“I didn’t set out to be the first openly gay athlete playing in a major American team sport,” he wrote. “But since I am, I’m happy to start the conversation.”
Since retiring in 2014, Collins has continued working with the NBA as an ambassador. Earlier this year, he married his longtime partner, producer Brunson Green. At 46, Collins now faces a new challenge, and the sports world is standing firmly behind him.
