Jason Collins
Jason Collins
Jason Paul Collinsis an American retired professional basketball player who played 13 seasons in the National Basketball Association. He played college basketball for Stanford University where he was an All-American in 2000–01, before being drafted 18th overall pick in the 2001 NBA draft by the Houston Rockets. He went on to play for the New Jersey Nets, Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, Washington Wizards and Brooklyn Nets...
ProfessionBasketball Player
Date of Birth2 December 1978
CityLos Angeles, CA
I didn't set out to be the first openly gay athlete playing in a major American team sport. But since I am, I'm happy to start the conversation,
I'm a 34-year-old NBA center. I'm black. And I'm gay. I didn't set out to be the first openly gay athlete playing in a major American team sport. But since I am, I'm happy to start the conversation. I wish I wasn't the kid in the classroom raising his hand and saying, 'I'm different.' If I had my way, someone else would have already done this. Nobody has, which is why I'm raising my hand.
I think he would appreciate someone on his team who isn't afraid to give a hard foul in the playoffs. It's different when someone's your teammate versus someone who's your opponent.
With the winning streaks we've had, we've shown that we're capable of beating the best teams in this league and playing at an extremely high level.
If he can help the team win some games, that is all I care about. If he came in and helped us win some games then I'm all for it.
The game plan was to give him a lot of looks. It was a team effort. When he gets the ball, everybody on the court has to know where he is.
What I want to say would be out of character for me to say, but we just need to get out heads out of our (rears) and do a better job of playing on the defensive end.
We need to get our heads out of our (butts).
When you're at home, you have to defend your home court. Whatever home court advantage we have, it's a cool energy level.
Things can change in an instant, so why not live truthfully?
I'm a 34-year-old NBA center. I'm black. And I'm gay,
Now I'm a free agent, literally and figuratively. I've reached that enviable state in life in which I can do pretty much what I want. And what I want is to continue to play basketball. I still love the game, and I still have something to offer. My coaches and teammates recognize that. At the same time, I want to be genuine and authentic and truthful.
When we get to the point where a gay pro athlete is no longer forced to live in fear that he’ll be shunned by teammates or outed by tabloids, when we get to the point where he plays while his significant other waits in the family room, when we get to the point where he’s not compelled to hide his true self and is able to live an authentic life, then coming out won’t be such a big deal. But we’re not there yet,
I am in love with the creator of heaven and earth. I see the morning sun and thank the Lord for everything that he has blessed me with. That is a perfect start to every morning.