Introduction to Jason Collins’ Health Issue
Jason Collins, a 13-year NBA veteran and groundbreaking athlete who came out as gay in 2013, is being treated for a brain tumor, his family said.
The NBA released a statement by Collins’ family on Sept. 11 about the 46-year-old’s health.
Statement from the Family
"NBA Ambassador and 13-year NBA veteran Jason Collins is currently undergoing treatment for a brain tumor," the statement said. "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."
Jason Collins’ NBA Career
The 7-foot center played for the then-New Jersey Nets from 2001 to 2008, a span that included a pair of appearances in the NBA Finals. He also played for five other NBA teams before he returned to the Nets, this time in Brooklyn, in 2014 to finish his career.
Support from the Nets
The Nets shared a message for Collins on Instagram on Sept. 11. "Sending our love and support to @jasoncollins_98 and his family," the team wrote, adding a heart emoji.
Coming Out as Gay
In 2013, Collins came out as gay in a story by Sports Illustrated, making him the first active openly gay player in any of the four major American sports leagues. "I didn’t set out to be the first openly gay athlete playing in a major American team sport," he wrote in a first-person essay for SI. "But since I am, I’m happy to start the conversation. 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."
Family and Career Background
Collins was a standout at Stanford, where he starred alongside his twin brother, Jarron Collins, who played for a decade in the NBA. Jarron Collins, who is now an assistant for the New Orleans Pelicans, shared the family’s statement about his brother on Instagram on Sept. 11.
Conclusion
Jason Collins’ health issue has sent shockwaves through the NBA community, with many offering their support and prayers for his recovery. As a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ rights in sports, Collins’ courage and resilience have inspired countless individuals around the world. We wish him a speedy recovery and continued strength in the face of this challenging time.
FAQs
- Q: What is Jason Collins’ current health issue?
A: Jason Collins is being treated for a brain tumor. - Q: How long did Jason Collins play in the NBA?
A: Jason Collins played in the NBA for 13 years. - Q: What was significant about Jason Collins’ announcement in 2013?
A: In 2013, Jason Collins came out as gay, making him the first active openly gay player in any of the four major American sports leagues. - Q: What team did Jason Collins play for at the end of his career?
A: Jason Collins finished his career with the Brooklyn Nets in 2014. - Q: How has the NBA community responded to Jason Collins’ health issue?
A: The NBA community, including his former team the Nets, has offered support and prayers for his recovery.
