Washington Wizards’ Jason Collins, an Africa American, made sports history becoming the first active professional athlete in America’s top four sports to public announce that his homosexuality.
“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.”
Collins, a 34 year old center who has played 12 seasons for six NBA teams including the Boston Celtics, New Jersey Nets, and Minnesota Timberwolves, made the admission in a forthcoming Sports Illustrated column.
“He has been a leader on and off the court and an outstanding teammate throughout his NBA career. Those qualities will continue to serve him both as a player and as a positive role model for others of all sexual orientation,Washington Wizards President Ernie Grunfeld ”
Since the announcement, Collins has received support from several celebrities including Kobe Bryant, Spike Lee and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.
“Being real & authentic is very powerful. Well done Jason Collins for having the courage to take a monumental step forward. #LiveReal” (The Rock’s Twitter)
