The global basketball community and the residents of Florida are joined in a state of profound and heavyhearted mourning following the passing of Jason Collins on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. A man whose life was a brilliant testament to personal courage, professional excellence, and sincere human connection, Jason’s departure at the age of 47 has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of his family, his former teammates, and the millions of fans who valued his presence. His death, resulting from a valiant eight-month battle with Stage 4 glioblastoma, occurred peacefully at his home where he was surrounded by the love of his family.
In the NBA and throughout his life, Jason was remembered first and foremost as a sincere and kind-hearted individual who navigated the high-pressure world of professional athletics with a spirit of dedication and a quiet, steady grace. Known for his 13-year career as a formidable center for teams including the New Jersey and Brooklyn Nets, he was a person of humanity and warmth who possessed a natural ability to foster lasting connections through his genuine nature. To those who knew him best—especially his husband, Brunson Green, and his twin brother, Jarron—Jason was a source of constant loyalty and light. In 2013, he became a groundbreaking figure by becoming the first active player in major U.S. men’s professional sports to come out as gay, a moment that fundamentally shifted the landscape of athletics toward inclusion.
The tragedy of his passing has sparked a period of solemn reflection across the United States. Tributes shared by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and fellow players describe a man who earned the respect of the league through the consistency of his character and his unwavering commitment to being his true self. As loved ones gather to honor his memory, the outpouring of sympathy serves as a testament to the shattering reach of this loss.
As the Collins family navigates this unimaginably difficult season of grief, they are supported by a global community that stands in unwavering solidarity with them. Jason Collins is being remembered with heartfelt respect as a cherished pioneer and friend whose spirit will be forever honored in the history of the game. May he rest in eternal peace.
