News has emerged that Jason Collins, a former player with 13 seasons in the NBA, is currently receiving medical attention for a brain tumor, according to a public statement released by the association. Collins, aged 46, gained prominence as the first openly gay active competitor in the four major North American professional sports leagues when he publicly disclosed his sexual orientation in a 2013 article in Sports Illustrated.
“Jason and his family are grateful for your encouragement and well wishes, and they respectfully request privacy as they focus their energies on Jason’s health and recovery,” the NBA shared via social media.
Collins was originally drafted into the league by the Houston Rockets as the 18th overall pick in the 2001 NBA Draft. Immediately following the draft, however, Collins was traded to the Nets. During his NBA career, the center participated in 735 games, representing the Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, Boston Celtics, Atlanta Hawks, and Washington Wizards, in addition to the Nets. His career statistics show averages of 3.6 points and 3.7 rebounds per game throughout his time in the league.
In February of 2014, Collins rejoined the Nets by signing a 10-day contract, marking his return to the team where he had previously spent the initial seven seasons of his NBA career. This stint gave Collins the opportunity to play under the guidance of coach Jason Kidd, who was also a former teammate during Collins’ earlier time with the Nets. Collins officially announced his departure from professional basketball in November of 2014.
During his time with the Nets, Collins made the decision to wear jersey number 98, a choice he had also made while playing for the Celtics and Wizards. This number was selected as a tribute to Matthew Shepard, a young man who was murdered in 1998 due to his sexual orientation, an event that subsequently led to the passage of federal legislation addressing hate crimes.
