The sporting world is in mourning following the death of Jason Collins, the courageous NBA veteran who broke barriers as the first openly gay active athlete in major North American professional sports.
Collins passed away at the age of 47 on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, after a valiant battle with stage 4 glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. His family and the NBA confirmed the news, sparking a wave of tributes for a man whose legacy was defined by authenticity and leadership both on and off the hardwood.
Collins first went public with his glioblastoma diagnosis in late 2025, after suffering from persistent brain fog and memory loss. Throughout his treatment, which included experimental therapies and radiation, he remained a visible and vocal member of the basketball community. He is survived by his husband, film producer Brunson Green, whom he married in a private ceremony in 2025, as well as his twin brother and fellow NBA veteran, Jarron Collins.
A 13-Year Legacy of Defensive Grit
Standing seven feet tall, Jason Collins was a formidable defensive presence across 13 seasons in the NBA. He was a key component of the New Jersey Nets teams that reached back-to-back NBA Finals in 2002 and 2003. Known as a “consummate professional,” Collins played for several franchises, including the Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, Washington Wizards, and finally the Brooklyn Nets, where he made his historic return to the court after coming out.
The Moment That Changed Sports History
In 2013, Collins penned a deeply personal essay for Sports Illustrated, beginning with the iconic words: “I’m a 34-year-old NBA center. I’m black. And I’m gay.” The announcement was a watershed moment for inclusivity, earning him praise from figures ranging from Barack Obama to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. By living his truth while still active in the league, Collins paved the way for future generations of LGBTQ+ athletes to compete without hiding their identities.
Tributes from the Basketball Community
As news of his passing spread, the NBA community reflected on his impact. “Jason was a dear friend and a hero to so many,” the league stated. Coaches and former teammates highlighted his “quiet strength” and “unwavering dignity.” While his career was built on setting screens and protecting the paint, his final years were dedicated to the fight for representation, ensuring that his name would forever be synonymous with progress in the world of sports.