Jason Collins Undergoing Treatment for Brain Tumor

Former NBA player Jason Collins is currently receiving treatment for a brain tumor, according to a statement from his family.

Collins made headlines in 2013 with a first-person essay in Sports Illustrated where he opened up about his sexuality, marking him as the first openly gay player in one of the four major North American male professional sports leagues. This revelation was significant; Collins mentioned it was the first time he spoke about this aspect of his life outside of his close circle.

He expressed feelings of fear regarding his past and wrote about the emotional toll of keeping such a huge secret. “No one wants to live in fear. I’ve always been scared of saying the wrong things… Keeping such a big secret requires a huge amount of energy,” he reflected. His gradual shift toward openness brought him a sense of strength, even if it came with challenges.

After retiring in 2014, Collins had a notable 13-year NBA career with teams like the Brooklyn Nets, Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, and Washington Wizards.

His family has requested privacy during this time and expressed gratitude for the support and prayers for Collins’s health and well-being.

During his career, he averaged 3.6 points and 3.7 rebounds, with a standout season in 2004-05 where he averaged 6.4 points and 6.1 rebounds for the New Jersey Nets. Presently, Collins serves as an NBA ambassador.