NBA's First Openly Gay Player Jason Collins Passes Away at 47
Jason Collins, Stanford star and NBA's 1st openly gay player, dies at 47
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Jason Collins, the NBA's first openly gay player and former Stanford basketball star, has died at age 47 from brain cancer. His family announced his passing due to glioblastoma, expressing gratitude for the support he received during his illness and highlighting his inspirational legacy.
- 01Jason Collins died from stage 4 glioblastoma at age 47.
- 02He was the NBA's first openly gay player, coming out in a 2013 Sports Illustrated article.
- 03Collins played 13 seasons in the NBA, primarily with the New Jersey Nets.
- 04He was a key player in Stanford's basketball success, reaching the Final Four in 1998.
- 05His family expressed deep gratitude for the love and support during his battle with cancer.
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Jason Collins, the NBA's first openly gay player, passed away at the age of 47 after a courageous battle with glioblastoma, a severe form of brain cancer. His family shared the news, emphasizing the profound impact he had on others and the gratitude they felt for the support received during his illness. Collins was diagnosed with stage 4 glioblastoma last fall and sought experimental treatments in Singapore, which allowed him to return to the U.S. and participate in events, including a recent appearance at Stanford's basketball game against California. Over his 13-year NBA career, Collins played for six teams, primarily as a center for the New Jersey Nets. He gained national attention when he publicly came out in 2013, becoming a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ athletes. Stanford's former coach, Mike Montgomery, praised Collins' contributions to the program and the lasting memories he created. Collins is survived by his husband, Brunson Green, and his family.
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