NBA’s Jason Collins Faces Silent Battle: What the League Isn’t Saying About His Brain Tumor Treatment

Hearing the news that Jason Collins, a name etched in NBA history not just for his on-court hustle but for his trailblazing courage, is now confronting a brain tumor hits hard. It’s one of those moments that make you pause, reflect on the journey of a man who not only played 13 seasons at the highest level but also transformed the cultural fabric of professional sports. Jason’s story—drafted in 2001, sharing draft day spotlight with his twin brother Jarron, and carving out a niche mostly with the Nets—tells of resilience, determination, and quiet leadership. His impact transcended basketball when, in 2013, he courageously came out as the first openly gay active player in a major North American men’s league. That brave step reshaped the NBA’s relationship with the LGBTQ+ community and inspired inclusivity that ripples on today. Now, as Jason faces this daunting personal battle, we stand alongside him—offering thoughts, prayers, and the respect his family asks for during this delicate time. To dive deeper into Jason Collins’ legacy and current challenge, LEARN MORE.

It was announced Thursday morning that former NBA player and league ambassador Jason Collins is undergoing treatment for a brain tumor.

A statement was presented by the NBA on behalf of Collins and his family, welcoming support and prayers, but also kindly requesting privacy as they tend to their loved one.

Collins, 46, was drafted in 2001 along with twin brother Jarron and played 13 years in the NBA for six different teams, with the majority of that time (eight years) spent with the New Jersey (and eventually, Brooklyn) Nets. He made two NBA Finals (2002 and 2003) appearances early in his career with the Nets as a role player, though he never won a championship over his career with the Nets losing to the Lakers and Spurs in consecutive finals series.

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In 2013, Collins came out as the first openly gay active player in a men’s North American sports league. Collins’ announcement helped spark NBA involvement in supporting the LGBTQ+ community and wanting to provide a safe space for anyone in the community. Following his announcement, the NBA became the first sports league to participate in the New York City Pride Parade.

Collins last played in the 2013-14 season, closing out his career with the Nets, averaging just 7.8 minutes per game over his final campaign. He announced his retirement from the league on November 20, 2014, with a feature in The Players’ Tribune, aptly titled “I’m Out.”,