NBA World Mourns the Death of Former Nets, Wizards Center
Jason Collins spent 13 seasons in the NBA and became one of the most important figures the league has ever seen. Not just for what he did on the court but for what he stood for off it.
The longtime center passed away Tuesday at 47 after an eight-month battle with Stage 4 glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer that had spread across both hemispheres of his brain in what doctors described as a butterfly pattern. Collins had publicly shared his diagnosis in December 2025 through a personal essay published by ESPN, revealing that standard chemotherapy had proven ineffective and that he had traveled to a clinic in Singapore to explore experimental treatment.
His death hits the basketball world hard. Collins made history in 2013 as the first openly gay active athlete in a major American professional sports league, a moment that carried weight far beyond the game itself. The NBA is also mourning the loss of Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke, who was 29, passing within a short span of Collins.
Former veteran center Jason Collins has died at the age of 47, the NBA announced.
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) May 12, 2026
Collins was the first active, openly gay player in league history and had a storied career including two NBA Finals appearances.https://t.co/8M7ezbIxL3pic.twitter.com/i9O1ydexe9
NBA World Reacts to Jason Collins' Death
Tributes poured in quickly. Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd, who crossed paths with Collins during his time in Brooklyn, was among the first to speak.
"This one hurts. Jason Collins was a pioneer." Kidd wrote. "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,"
"Jason changed lives through his courage, authenticity, and commitment to helping others feel seen. His legacy extends far beyond basketball. He helped move sports and society forward with strength. We share our heartfelt condolences with his loved ones and all who were impacted by his life and leadership," Billie Jean King also paid her respects.
"Rest in peace my thoughts and condolences to the family," one fan wrote.
"Today was a bad day for the NBA losing two players way before their time. You wish the best for their friends and family in this terrible time," another commented.
"Again, death took the wrong one," one noted.
"A legacy bigger than basketball. Rest in peace Jason Collins," another added.
Jason Collins' NBA Career and Legacy
Collins played for six franchises across his 13-year career: the New Jersey Nets, Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics and Washington Wizards.
He appeared in 735 games, averaging 3.6 points and 3.7 rebounds, and was selected by the Houston Rockets with the 18th overall pick in the 2001 NBA Draft before his rights were traded to New Jersey on draft night.
He was a reliable veteran presence throughout his playing days. But the announcement he made in 2013 defined his place in sports history. Collins leaves behind a legacy that the game won't forget.
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This story was originally published May 12, 2026 at 6:45 PM.