NBA's Jason Collins Dies at 47: His Cause of Death
It's a sad day for the NBA. Earlier today, May 12, news broke that Memphis Grizzlies' Brandon Clarke passed away at the age of 29. And now, it's being reported that former NBA star Jason Collins has died at 47, peacefully at home and surrounded by his loved ones.
That's heartbreaking news for a former basketball player who grabbed headlines when he bravely announced he was gay, becoming the first openly gay active male not only in NBA, but also in any of the four major sports. Specifically, he stated, "I'm a 34-year-old NBA center. I'm Black. And I'm gay." Speaking on Collins' passing, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver stated:
"Jason Collins' impact and influence extended far beyond basketball as he helped make the NBA, WNBA and larger sports community more inclusive and welcoming for future generations. He exemplified outstanding leadership and professionalism throughout his 13-year NBA career and in his dedicated work as an NBA Cares Ambassador. Jason will be remembered not only for breaking barriers, but also for the kindness and humanity that defined his life and touched so many others.
"On behalf of the NBA, I send my heartfelt condolences to Jason's husband, Brunson, and his family, friends and colleagues across our leagues."
Jason Collins Died After "Valiant Fight with Glioblastoma"
In November 2025, Collins shared with ESPN that he was diagnosed with stage 4 glioblastoma, an aggressive type of brain cancer. While Collins sought experimental treatment for the cancer outside of the US, the treatments ultimately didn't yield the hoped-for results. In a statement issued by the NBA on behalf of the family, Collins loved ones shared:
"We are heartbroken to share that Jason Collins, our beloved husband, son, brother and uncle, has died after a valiant fight with glioblastoma.
"Jason changed lives in unexpected ways and was an inspiration to all who knew him and to those who admired him from afar. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers over the past eight months and for the exceptional medical care Jason received from his doctors and nurses. Our family will miss him dearly."
Collins is survived by his twin brother Jarron, his husband Brunson Green, his parents Paul and Portia, a host of other family members and friends, and an esteemed NBA legacy that includes years playing with the Nets, Minnesota Timberwolves, and the Atlanta Hawks, just to name a few of his former teams.
Rest in peace, Jason Collins, and our deepest sympathies to the loved ones he leaves behind.
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This story was originally published by Men's Journal on May 12, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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This story was originally published May 12, 2026 at 7:39 PM.