Jason Collins, First Openly Gay NBA Player, Dies After Brain Cancer Diagnosis
Jason Collins, 47, the first openly gay player in a major U.S. pro sports league, has died after a battle with glioblastoma. His family confirmed the news Tuesday.
Collins’ family said he died after a valiant fight with glioblastoma, calling him a beloved husband, son, brother, and uncle...
Former NBA player Jason Collins has passed away after battling brain cancer, his family confirmed on Tuesday.
Collins, who made history as the first openly gay athlete to play in a major U.S. pro sports league, died following his fight with glioblastoma. “We are heartbroken to share that Jason Collins, our beloved husband, son, brother and uncle has died after a valiant fight with glioblastoma,” the family said in a statement released 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.”
At 47, Collins announced in September that he was receiving treatment for a brain tumor. In December, he told ESPN he had been diagnosed with an aggressive glioblastoma multiforme that was progressing rapidly.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement today regarding the passing of NBA Cares Ambassador and former NBA player Jason Collins:
— NBA (@NBA) May 12, 2026
“Jason Collins’ impact and influence extended far beyond basketball as he helped make the NBA, WNBA and larger sports community… pic.twitter.com/7mygdEsDCs
With support from his husband Brunson Green and close family and friends, he started treatment that included medication, radiation, and chemotherapy. He also chose to pursue experimental options in Singapore.
Following treatment, Collins was able to go home and appeared at NBA All-Star Weekend events in Los Angeles.
He said he hoped sharing his cancer diagnosis might offer the same kind of help to someone else going through it.
“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,” NBA commissioner Adam Silver said.
“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.
“On behalf of the NBA, I send my heartfelt condolences to Jason’s husband, Brunson, and his family, friends and colleagues across our leagues.”
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