Former Nets center Jason Collins is undergoing treatment for a brain tumor, his family announced Thursday in a statement released by the NBA.
“NBA Ambassador and 13-year NBA veteran Jason Collins is currently undergoing treatment for a brain tumor,” the NBA said in a statement. “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.”
Collins’ career spanned 13 seasons, starting with seven in New Jersey before a midseason trade to Memphis in 2008. He went on to suit up for Minnesota, Atlanta, Boston and Washington, then closed out his career with a late-season return to Brooklyn in 2013–14.
The 46-year-old came out as gay in 2013, making him the first active athlete in one of the four major North American professional sports leagues to take that step. Across 13 seasons, he averaged 3.6 points and 3.7 rebounds while shooting 41.1% from the field.
Collins’ best season came with the Nets in 2004-05, where he averaged 6.4 points and 6.1 rebounds per game. His work as a defensive presence and screen setter proved vital to the Nets’ back-to-back Finals appearances in 2002 and 2003.
Since retiring, Collins has remained connected to the game through his work as an NBA Cares ambassador while also serving as a leading voice for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports. He’s partnered with groups such as GLSEN and the Human Rights Campaign, using his platform to highlight why representation matters on and off the court.
