Basketball star Jason Collins has died aged 47. His death comes after a long battle with glioblastoma, an advanced form of brain cancer.
He died peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loved ones. Collins made history in 2013 when he became the first active US NBA player to publicly share that he was gay.
At the time, no player in any major US sporting code had come out during their playing career. Collins had a 13-year career, mostly with the New Jersey Nets. He also had stints with teams in Memphis, Minnesota, Atlanta, Boston and Washington. He shared news of his sexuality via a personal story that appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated.
He was married to film producer Brunston Green.
The NBA released a statement on behalf of Collins’ family.
“We are heartbroken to share that Jason Collins, our beloved husband, son, brother and uncle, has died after a valiant fight with glioblastoma,” it said.
“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.”
