Jason Collins, first openly gay NBA player, dies at 47 due to brain cancer

Jason Collins, the first openly gay active NBA player, has died at the age of 47 after a battle with brain cancer, the league announced on Tuesday.

“We are heartbroken to share that Jason Collins, our beloved husband, son, brother and uncle, has died after a valiant fight with glioblastoma,” his family said in a statement through the league.

“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.”

Collins was selected 18th overall by the Houston Rockets in 2001 and went on to play for six different teams across 13 NBA seasons.

In 2013, he came out as gay, becoming the first active NBA player ever to do so. That also made him the first ever openly gay active player in a men’s North American sports league.

In November, Collins revealed that he had been diagnosed with glioblastoma, a deadly form of brain cancer. He reportedly traveled to Singapore to receive treatment that isn’t available in the U.S., but the cancer returned too aggressively to fully complete the treatment.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver released a statement on Tuesday after the announcement was made.

“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.”

James Parker is a sports writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker

About the Author Published May 12, 2026

JAMES PARKER

James Parker is a sports reporter and writer for Ball Exclusives. With a bachelor's degree earned at the age of 19, he’s spent years working as a sports journalist, including an award-winning stint at The Appalachian. He has never used AI for his work in any way, shape or form.