Heartfelt tributes to NBA player Jason Collins from Billie Jean King, Bill and Chelsea Clinton and many others

Billie Jean King: We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jason Collins, the first openly gay NBA player, a founding advisory board member for the @billiejeankingfoundation, and our dear friend. Jason changed lives through his courage, authenticity, and commitment to helping others feel seen. His legacy extends far beyond basketball. He helped move sports and society forward with strength.

We share our heartfelt condolences with his loved ones and all who were impacted by his life and leadership.

Kelley Robinson, President of LGBTQ+ rights organization, HRC. “To call Jason Collins a groundbreaking figure for our community is simply inadequate. We truly lost a giant today. He came out as gay – while still playing – at a time when men’s athletes simply did not do that. But as he powerfully demonstrated in his final years in the league and his post-NBA career, stepping forward as he did boldly changed the conversation. He was and will always be a legend for the LGBTQ+ community, and we are heartbroken to hear of his passing at the young age of 47.”

President Bill Clinton: Jason Collins was far more than a trailblazer for the NBA. He was a role model to everyone who watched him and a gift to all of us fortunate enough to know him—and a great friend to Chelsea. A big man with an even bigger heart, Jason will be deeply missed. Hillary and I send our condolences to his husband, Brunson, his brother, Jarron, and the entire Collins family.

Chelsea Clinton: Heartbroken by the passing of my beloved friend Jason Collins. He was a trailblazer whose courage changed lives, and a kind, thoughtful friend who could always make me laugh. He will live in my heart forever.

Jason Kidd (Coach of NBA’s Dallas Mavericks): “This one hurts. Jason Collins was a pioneer. He had courage like you’ve never seen. He was an incredible teammate. And having him in Brooklyn at the start of my coaching journey meant so much. Those who knew him were blessed to call him a friend. You are already missed my brother. Rest in power.”

Cynthia Nixon: So sad to hear today about the much too early passing of Jason Collins, a true American hero. Can’t imagine how much bravery it must have taken in 2013 as a professional athlete to come out publicly, the first basketball player to do so while still in the NBA. I had the privilege of meeting Jason more than once as we made a case together for LGBTQ equality and each time I was struck by his incredible warmth and by the way he looked you in the eye and told you his whole truth. Rest in power Jason. I hope you know what a role model you were to so many and how many lives you transformed with your courage.

Brian Sims: Jason changed the world long before most people had the courage to admit it needed changing. I first met him in 2014, through Outsports and Nike, in those days when so many of us were throwing our shoulders against doors locked for generations. What stopped me wasn’t just his courage, though history will rightly honor that. It was his kindness. His humility. The quiet, unshakeable way he carried himself, like a man who had already decided that love was worth whatever it cost him. We stayed in touch over the years. I treasured that. He didn’t just open doors. He stood in them until everyone else got through. Today I’m sitting with the weight of losing a friend, and with gratitude for the reminder that one person’s quiet bravery can permanently alter what’s possible for millions. My heart is with everyone who loved him. Rest well, Jason.

Kirk Walker: Today we lost a giant among men and one of the best human beings I’ve known. Jason Collins passed away today after battling brain cancer. He will be remembered by so many for the positive impact he had on people’s lives. He cared deeply for people and was one of the kindest men I’ve ever met. I will miss our time in advocacy, competing on the pickleball court and in championing change in the world. He touched so many lives. My heart goes out to his husband Brunson and his family which he adored. He loved his family so much and I know they will miss him greatly. RIP my dear friend and colleague

Lance Bass: Jason changed the game forever simply by having the courage to be himself. I’ll always be grateful I got to witness his strength up close and call him a friend. Watching him step into his truth inspired so many people- especially young athletes who finally saw themselves represented. Heartbroken by this loss. Sending love to Brunson, the family and everyone who knew and loved him. His legacy will live on forever.