Jason Collins, former Nets center and NBA’s first openly gay player, remembered as ‘pioneer’

Collins was a 34-year-old free agent when he came out as gay in a Sports Illustrated cover story in April 2013.

The announcement made Collins the first openly gay active player in any of four major North American men’s pro sports leagues.

“I didn’t set out to be the first openly gay athlete playing in a major American team sport. But since I am, I’m happy to start the conversation,” Collins wrote at the time. “I wish I wasn’t the kid in the classroom raising his hand and saying, ‘I’m different.’ If I had my way, someone else would have already done this. Nobody has, which is why I’m raising my hand.”

Collins’ announcement was widely praised, with President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, Kobe Bryant and the NBA Players Association among those who stood with him.

Former player Tim Hardaway — a changed man after saying in 2007 that he wouldn’t have wanted to play with John Amaechi, who came out as gay in retirement — was among those who called Collins to share his support.

Collins signed a 10-day contract with the Kidd-coached Nets in February 2014 and ultimately appeared in 22 games with Brooklyn, starting one, in what proved to be his final season.

Best known for his defense, Collins averaged 3.6 points and 3.7 rebounds per game in his career.

“Those who were around Jason every day knew him not just as a competitor, but as a genuinely kind, thoughtful person who brought people together,” the Nets said in a statement. “His impact extended far beyond the court, and his courage and authenticity helped move the game — and the world — forward.”

Last December, Collins announced his diagnosis with Stage 4 glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer.

His family announced Collins’ death on Tuesday, writing that he “changed lives in unexpected ways and was an inspiration to all who knew him and to those who admired him from afar.”

Collins is survived by family including his husband, Brunson Green, and his twin brother, Jarron Collins, who played 10 NBA seasons and is now an assistant coach for the New Orleans Pelicans.

“Jason will be remembered not only for breaking barriers,” Silver said in a statement, “but also for the kindness and humanity that defined his life and touched so many others.”