NBA Trailblazer Jason Collins Passes Away Following Battle With Brain Cancer

Former NBA player Jason Collins has tragically passed away at the age of 47 after an eight-month battle with Stage 4 glioblastoma, a particularly aggressive brain cancer. This news was confirmed by his family on Tuesday through a statement issued by the National Basketball Association.

In 2013, Collins made history by becoming the first openly gay active player in the NBA, a milestone that was celebrated widely and contributed to greater inclusiveness within the sport.

His family expressed in a statement, “Jason changed lives in unexpected ways and was an inspiration to everyone who knew him. We are thankful for the overwhelming love and support during his illness, and for the care extended by his medical team.”

Over his 13-season career, Collins played for six teams, including the Brooklyn Nets, Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Washington Wizards. He had career averages of 3.6 points and 3.7 rebounds.

One standout phase of his career occurred with the Nets, where he played a pivotal role in helping the team reach two NBA Finals. During the 2004-05 season, Collins recorded averages of 6.4 points and 6.1 rebounds.

Recently, Collins received the inaugural Bill Walton Global Champion Award at the Green Sports Alliance Summit, although he was unable to attend the ceremony due to his declining health. His twin brother, Jarron, a former NBA player himself, accepted the award, calling Jason “the bravest and strongest man” he had ever known.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver paid tribute to Collins, noting that his influence extended well beyond the game of basketball, commending him for making sports more welcoming and inclusive for future generations.

Former teammate Jason Kidd also shared heartfelt words, describing Collins as both a courageous pioneer and a remarkable teammate.

Collins publicly identified his sexuality in a first-person article for Sports Illustrated back in April 2013. At that time, he was a free agent and subsequently played 22 games with Brooklyn in the following season.

In the latter part of his career, he wore the jersey number 98 in honor of Matthew Shepard, a name that has become an essential symbol in the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights.

Following the announcement of his passing, tributes from various corners of the basketball community and civil rights groups began to flow in. A moment of silence was held before the NBA playoff game featuring the Timberwolves and Spurs in his memory.

Before making it to the NBA, Collins shone brightly at Stanford University, where he was selected 18th overall by the Houston Rockets in the 2001 NBA Draft.

Jason Collins will be remembered not just for his contributions on the court, but also for his groundbreaking role in inspiring countless individuals worldwide.