(AURN News) — Jason Collins, the first openly gay player in NBA history, died at 47 after battling brain cancer, according to People.
Collins’ family confirmed he died Tuesday after what they described as a courageous battle. He had been undergoing treatment since 2025.
A California native, Collins began his NBA career in 2001 and played for the New Jersey Nets, Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, Washington Wizards and Brooklyn Nets.
In 2013, he came out publicly in a Sports Illustrated essay, making history the following year when he played for the Brooklyn Nets.
After retiring in 2014, Collins became a global ambassador for basketball and advocated for inclusion in sports.
He is survived by his husband, Brunson Green, his twin brother, Jarron Collins and his parents, Portia and Paul Collins.
Rest in peace, Jason Collins.
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