Collins Was a True Hero Who Broke Barriers and Championed Equality
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
TWO Mourns the Loss of NBA Trailblazer Jason Collins
Collins Was a True Hero Who Broke Barriers and Championed Equality
Delray Beach, FL — Truth Wins Out expresses profound sadness over the death of former NBA player Jason Collins, whose courage and integrity changed the landscape of professional sports and inspired countless LGBTQ Americans to live openly and authentically.
Collins made history in 2013 when he became the first openly gay active male athlete in one of America’s four major professional sports leagues. At a time when few athletes felt safe enough to publicly acknowledge their sexual orientation, Collins stepped forward with dignity, honesty and grace. His decision shattered barriers, challenged stereotypes and opened doors for future generations of LGBTQ athletes.
“Jason Collins was a trailblazer whose bravery transcended basketball,” said Wayne Besen, Executive Director of Truth Wins Out. “By courageously coming out while still an active NBA player, he demonstrated extraordinary character and helped move our nation closer to fairness, understanding and equality. Jason gave hope to countless young LGBTQ people who saw that they could be both authentic and successful.”
During a professional basketball career that spanned more than a decade, Collins played for several NBA teams, including the New Jersey Nets, Boston Celtics, Washington Wizards, Atlanta Hawks and Brooklyn Nets. Known for his intelligence, toughness and professionalism, Collins earned the respect of teammates, coaches and fans throughout the league.
Yet, his most enduring legacy may be the example he set off the court.
At a time when anti-LGBTQ rhetoric remains prevalent and many young people still struggle with rejection and discrimination, Collins’ public honesty represented a powerful affirmation that LGBTQ individuals belong everywhere — including in professional sports, locker rooms and positions of public visibility.
“Jason Collins understood that representation matters,” Besen said. “He knew there were LGBTQ youth watching who felt isolated and invisible. By stepping forward, he told those young people that they were not alone and had nothing to be ashamed of. That message saved lives.”
At a time when extremist voices continue attempting to marginalize LGBTQ Americans, Collins’ life stands as a reminder that visibility and courage can change hearts, minds and institutions.
Truth Wins Out extends its deepest condolences to Jason Collins’ family, loved ones, friends, former teammates and the many people whose lives he touched through his honesty and example.
About Truth Wins Out
Truth Wins Out is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that works to advance liberty and democracy, protect the rights of LGBTQ people and other minorities, combat religious extremism, and fight against the spread of disinformation.
Contact Wayne Besen, Executive Director
Email: wbesen@truthwinsout.org