The diagnosis of a tumor cerebral has marked a new and difficult chapter in the life of Jason Collinswho at 46 began a medical treatment with the aim of improving their quality of life. The news was confirmed through an official statement from the National Basketball Association (NBA)in which respect for the privacy of the former player and his family was requested during this process, while thanking the support and prayers of the community.
“Jason and his family welcome their support and prayers, and kindly privacy as they dedicate their attention to the health and well -being of Jason”expressed the most important basketball league authorities.
The trajectory of Collins In professional basketball it was marked by its passenger teams such as Boston Celtics, Houston Rockets y Atlanta Hawksand culminated in 2014 after a race in which he faced figures like Michael Jordan y Kobe Bryant. Although he did not get a champion ring, his presence in seven NBA franchises consolidated him as a reference on and off the court. In 2001, he was selected in the 18th place of the Draft by the Houston Rockets.
Beyond their sports achievements, Collins It became an emblematic figure by declaring itself openly gay a few years after canceling your wedding with Carolyn Moosformer American basketball player and gold medalist at the Youth Olympic Games. This decision positioned him as the first NBA player to make his sexual orientation public during his career, a fact that had a significant impact on visibility and inclusion within professional sport.
“I am a 34 -year -old NBA pivot. I’m black. And I’m gay”he said in an edition of the magazine Sports Illustratedwhose cover starred in 2013.
During their final stage as a professional in the Brooklyn Nets, Collins chose to carry number 98 in tribute to Matthew Shepardalumnus of the University of Wyoming killed in 1998, whose case attracted international attention and motivated changes in hate crimes in the United States. Until the moment of its diagnosis, Collins maintained an active role in the initiative NBA Cares and participated in public activities to promote inclusion and diversity in the sports field.
During his career he averaged 3.6 points and 3.7 rebounds. His best records found them with the then New Jersey Nets in the 2004-05 season, when he signed 6.4 points and 6.1 average rebounds.
In 2023, the native of Northridge He reflected on the perception of fans towards professional athletes and the need to advance the acceptance of athletes who reveal their sexual orientation. “We need more and more male athletes to take a step forward so that we can get to that day when, after the game ends, the other significant of all is in the family hall waiting for them along with everyone else, regardless of the genre.”he declared Collins a The Athletic.
After his retirement, Collins consolidated his personal life by making public his relationship with the film producer Brunson Greenmoving away from the fears that accompanied him for years and finding greater peace of mind. Now, he faces the new challenge that his health raises.
