Jason Collins, the former NBA centre who became the first openly gay active player in the league’s history, has died at the age of 47. The cause of death has not been disclosed. Tributes have poured in from across the sporting world, with particular resonance in the United Kingdom, where Collins is celebrated as a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ representation in sport.
Collins’s announcement in a 2013 Sports Illustrated cover story was a watershed moment in professional athletics. At the time, he was a 34-year-old journeyman centre, having played for six teams over 12 seasons. His public coming out was met with widespread support from teammates, coaches, and fans, challenging long-held stigmas in a league that had previously had no openly gay players.
In Britain, Collins’s courage was recognised by the BBC and other broadcasters, who noted the parallels with the country’s own struggles with homophobia in football. The UK’s leading LGBTQ+ sports charity, Stonewall, praised Collins as “a pioneer who made it easier for others to live their truth.” His legacy is often cited in campaigns to increase inclusion in British grassroots and professional sports.
Collins’s NBA career was modest statistically: he averaged 3.6 points and 3.8 rebounds per game. But his impact off the court was immense. After coming out, he signed a 10-day contract with the Brooklyn Nets, playing in 11 games during the 2013-14 season. He retired in 2014, later becoming an advocate for equality and mental health awareness.
The news of his death has prompted a fresh wave of reflection on the progress made and the work still to be done. In a statement, NBA commissioner Adam Silver said: “Jason’s bravery in coming out changed the landscape of professional sports. He will be remembered not only for his contributions on the court, but for the lives he inspired.”
In the UK, where no openly gay male footballer has played in the Premier League’s top flight, Collins’s example remains a powerful symbol. Campaigners have called for greater institutional support for LGBTQ+ athletes, noting that Collins’s journey remains an exception rather than the norm.
Collins is survived by his twin brother Jarron, also a former NBA player, and his parents. A private funeral is expected, with public memorials being planned in both the United States and the United Kingdom.
