NBA Trailblazer Jason Collins Dies at 47 After Battle With Brain Cancer

Former NBA star and trailblazer Jason Collins has died at the age of 47 following a battle with Stage 4 glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. His family confirmed the news Tuesday, marking a major loss for the sports world and the LGBTQ+ community.

Collins made history in 2013 when he publicly came out as gay in a groundbreaking essay published by Sports Illustrated, becoming the first openly gay active player in one of America’s four major professional sports leagues. At the time, his announcement was viewed as a pivotal moment in professional athletics and sparked widespread support from fellow athletes, public figures, and fans across the country.

During his 13-year NBA career, Collins played for several franchises including the New Jersey Nets, Boston Celtics, Atlanta Hawks, Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, Washington Wizards, and Brooklyn Nets. Known more for defense, leadership, and toughness than flashy scoring, Collins earned respect throughout the league as a dependable veteran presence.

Born in Los Angeles, Collins starred collegiately at Stanford University alongside his twin brother, former NBA player Jarron Collins. The two helped lead Stanford to the Final Four in 1998.

After retiring from basketball in 2014, Collins remained active in advocacy work focused on inclusion, equality, and youth outreach through NBA community initiatives. He also became an important voice for LGBTQ+ community.

Collins publicly revealed his glioblastoma diagnosis in late 2025 and underwent treatment while continuing to appear publicly when his health allowed.

Tributes from across the NBA and advocacy organizations poured in following the announcement of his death, with many describing Collins as courageous, compassionate, and transformative both on and off the court.