Jason Collins opened a door. Many LGBTQ athletes still don’t feel safe walking through it more than a decade later

Jason Collins Opened a Door. Many LGBTQ Athletes Still Don’t Feel Safe Walking Through It More Than a Decade Later

Jason Collins opened a door Many – Sometimes the most difficult news arrives at dusk. On May 12, 2026, NBA commissioner Adam Silver shared the passing of Jason Collins, a trailblazing figure in the league and a steadfast advocate for LGBTQ inclusion. The 47-year-old had been fighting stage 4 glioblastoma, a relentless and often fatal type of brain cancer, for eight months. In December of the prior year, Collins had openly discussed his treatment and the unwavering support he received from his husband, Brunson Green, and his family on Instagram. His journey to authenticity in 2013 marked a pivotal moment, as he became the first active player in the NBA—and among the four major men’s professional sports leagues in the US—to publicly acknowledge his sexuality.

Collins’ legacy endures in the conversations it sparks, even as the sports world continues to reckon with the complexities of LGBTQ representation. His death has prompted a wave of tributes from league leaders, activists, and fellow athletes. Among them, Major League Soccer’s Collin Martin highlighted Collins’ role as a pioneer, stating,

“Without him, I don’t know if the rest of us that came out after him, if it would have been as easy.”

Chris Mosier, an eight-time Team USA competitor and the first known transgender man to represent the United States internationally, echoed similar sentiments. He referred to Collins as “a big brother,” emphasizing his personal impact:

“Beyond being a great athlete and a ‘first,’ he was a dear friend, husband, brother and son. His smile not only lit up a room, it stayed with your soul long after you left his presence.”

Yet, despite Collins’ groundbreaking presence, the NBA remains the only major league where an active player has publicly declared being gay. In 2026, the sports landscape is still navigating how to balance inclusivity with traditional norms. Transgender athletes, in particular, face heightened scrutiny, with questions about their eligibility and identity often dominating headlines. For many in the community, the fear of judgment persists, even as Collins’ courage paved the way.

A Legacy of Courage and Compassion

Collins’ decision to come out in 2013 was more than a personal milestone—it was a cultural shift. By embracing his identity, he challenged stereotypes and inspired a generation of athletes to follow suit. His advocacy extended beyond the court, as he actively promoted inclusivity through initiatives like Pride Nights, which celebrated LGBTQ athletes in the NBA. These events provided safe spaces for players to express themselves and connect with allies.

Collins’ influence was also felt in policy changes. He collaborated with Hudson Taylor, founder of Athlete Ally, on efforts to address locker room culture and foster acceptance. Together, they spearheaded training programs for incoming NBA players, helping them navigate conversations about faith, family, and identity. One such effort involved advocating for the 2017 All-Star Game to be relocated from North Carolina due to the state’s contentious HB2 “bathroom bill,” which sparked debates about transgender rights in sports.

Taylor, who worked closely with Collins, reflected on the enduring challenges faced by LGBTQ athletes. “For a closeted athlete, there’s a constant calculation between the risk of coming out and the reward of living authentically,” he explained to CNN. “The risk might include losing a contract, facing fewer sponsorships, or dealing with a family that harbors homophobia. But the reward is the freedom to be oneself.” Taylor noted that while the NBA has shown consistent support for LGBTQ inclusion, athletes still grapple with the perceived dangers of being open. This tension is shaped not only by league policies but also by societal attitudes and the dynamics within team environments.

A Call for Institutional Support

Charles Barkley, a former NBA legend, shared his thoughts the night after Collins’ passing.

“Anybody who thinks we ain’t got a bunch of gay players in all sports, they’re just stupid,”

Barkley remarked, acknowledging the growing presence of LGBTQ athletes. However, he also expressed concern about the animosity that often surrounds the community. “There is such animosity toward the gay community, and that’s what’s really unfortunate.”

Barkley’s comments resonate with Hudson Taylor, who sees Collins’ voice as instrumental in shaping the discourse around inclusivity. Taylor emphasized that while the NBA has taken proactive steps, more needs to be done to ensure athletes feel fully accepted. “Coaches, owners, and sponsors have a responsibility to signal that it’s okay to be yourself,” he said. “They need to say, ‘It’s okay. I love you. I accept you. I got your back.’”

Collins’ unique ability to blend humor with grace made him a powerful ally. Ashland Johnson, a policy attorney and founder of The Inclusion Playbook, agreed that his presence helped athletes navigate difficult conversations. She noted Collins’ approach as a model for fostering understanding and reducing stigma. “His voice was a beacon for others,” Johnson said, describing him as “happy, humble, and the big.”

Even as Collins’ legacy grows, the journey for LGBTQ athletes continues. While progress has been made, many still weigh the potential costs of coming out against the benefits of authenticity. For transgender players, the challenges are often more pronounced, with debates about eligibility and fairness dominating public discourse. Collins’ example remains a touchstone, reminding the sports world that inclusion is not just a policy—it’s a mindset that requires ongoing commitment.

Collins’ passing has left a void, but his impact is felt in every step forward. As the sports industry moves toward a more inclusive future, the lessons he taught endure. His story is a testament to the courage it takes to be true to oneself, even in the face of uncertainty. For those who follow in his footsteps, his legacy is a reminder that the door he opened is still a path worth taking, even if the journey remains uneven.