Tributes pour in for gay sports hero Jason Collins. ‘The real ones leave footprints that can’t be erased.’
The death of former NBA player Jason Collins sparked remembrances across the basketball world and beyond as people remembered a pioneer who left an enduring legacy.
Mark
In the immediate aftermath to the news of the death of LGBTQ trailblazer and former NBA player Jason Collins, social media was filled with loving remembrances.
Collins, the NBA’s first active out gay player, died from brain cancer on Tuesday at age 47. On Feb. 23, 2014, he was signed by the Brooklyn Nets, making history a year after coming out.
The reaction of Will Sheridan, a gay former college basketball player, was typical:
“You were a pioneer, hooper and found your truth early enough to live your truth and share your story,” Sheridan wrote on Instagram. “You, no doubt, have touched lives and inspired people to be exactly who they are… even in basketball.
“Some may not remember that not too long ago there was little to NO INSPIRATION that looked like US and now generations to come will know. You moved the needle and added to the movement for visibility and equality.”
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Jason Collins has died, leaving behind a legacy second to none
Jason Collins has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, courage and inspiration unmatched by any before him.
Jason Kidd, who now coaches the Dallas Mavericks, was Collins’ coach when he joined the Nets, and he remembered his former player.
“This one hurts. Jason Collins was a pioneer. He had courage like you’ve never seen. He was an incredible teammate. And having him in Brooklyn at the start of my coaching journey meant so much. Those who knew him were blessed to call him a friend. You are already missed my brother. Rest in power.”
Derrick Gordon
Derrick Gordon was the first Division I men’s basketball player to come out as gay and Collins was one reason for his going public.
“Wow I’m stunned with the passing of Jason Collins who was not just a big brother to me but also role model,” Gordon wrote on X. “You were one of the reasons I decided to come out publicly back in 2014. You gave me a lot of advice and shared things I will never forget. You will truly be missed!!”
Billie Jean King
Josh Sanders, gay former athlete and now TV broadcaster.
Michiel Thomas, Emmy-winning director
Other reactions remembering Jason Collins
The real ones leave footprints that can't be erased. Jason Collins didn't just play the game, he changed it forever. First to stand tall so others wouldn't have to stand alone, then fought the impossible fight with that same courage. Some legacies aren't measured in stats, but in…— De Kyros
(@De_Kyros) May 12, 2026
It's surreal to think that before Jason Collins checked into a game 12 years ago, there had never been a (recognized) openly-gay person who had played in any of the four major US mens sports leagues. A genuine trailblazer. pic.twitter.com/g4CBz3lZ1I— Velodus
(@velodus) May 12, 2026
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