Former NBA forward Jason Collins undergoing treatment for brain tumor
The 46-year-old, NBA ambassador and 13-year veteran, and his family have requested privacy as he receives care.
Jason Collins, the former NBA forward who was the first active professional athlete to publicly come out as gay, is undergoing treatment for a brain tumor, his family and the league said Thursday.
An NBA statement said, "NBA Ambassador and 13-year NBA veteran Jason Collins is currently undergoing treatment for a brain tumor. Jason and his family welcome your support and prayers and kindly ask for privacy as they dedicate their attention to Jason’s health and well-being." Collins is 46.
Collins played 13 seasons in the NBA, beginning and ending his career with the New Jersey/Brooklyn Nets. He retired after the 2013-14 season and has served as an NBA ambassador in recent years. He first publicly acknowledged that he was gay in April 2013 when he published a personal essay and appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated.
In his coming-out statement, Collins said, "If I had my way, someone else would have already done this. Nobody has, which is why I’m raising my hand." His announcement drew wide attention both within sports and beyond, and he has since been a visible figure on issues of inclusion in athletics.
Collins married his longtime partner, Brunson Green, in June, according to public reports. The family and the league asked the public to respect their privacy while Collins focuses on medical care.
Medical details about the tumor, including its type, location and the specific course of treatment, were not disclosed by the family or the NBA. There was no immediate comment from Collins or Green beyond the statement relayed by the league. The NBA did not provide a timetable for his treatment or recovery.
Collins' announcement comes amid growing public attention to brain health and cancer care among professional athletes and retired players. While some former players have drawn scrutiny for neurodegenerative conditions linked to head trauma, the NBA statement did not link Collins' diagnosis to his playing career.
Friends, former teammates and advocacy groups have in recent hours expressed support on social media, reflecting Collins' profile as both a veteran player and an outspoken figure on LGBT inclusion in sports. The league's request for privacy follows common practice when public figures face serious medical issues.
Further updates on Collins' condition are expected only if and when the family or the NBA chooses to share them publicly. Until then, the statement asking for support, prayers and privacy stands as the primary source of information about his health status.