Jason Collins undergoing treatment for brain tumor

Originally posted on Hoops Wire | By Sam Amico | Last updated Sep 11, 2025 4:30 PM ET

Jason Collins, a 13-year NBA veteran and current league ambassador, is undergoing treatment for a brain tumor, his family announced Wednesday.

“NBA Ambassador and 13-year NBA veteran Jason Collins is currently undergoing treatment for a brain tumor,” the family said in a statement shared by the league.

“Jason and his family welcome your support and prayers and kindly ask for privacy as they dedicate their attention to Jason’s health and well-being.”

Collins, 46, made history in 2013 when he became the first active NBA player — and the first player in any major American men’s pro league — to publicly come out as gay. A reliable defensive center during his career, Collins played 13 seasons with the Nets, Grizzlies, Timberwolves, Hawks, Celtics and Wizards.

He was the starting center for the New Jersey Nets during their 2003 Finals run alongside Jason Kidd.

Our thoughts are with our friend and colleague, Jason Collins, and his family. https://t.co/TkL5a2DOFI pic.twitter.com/bHcp9IzwyZ

— NBA (@NBA) September 11, 2025

He and his twin brother, Jarron Collins, were standouts at Harvard-Westlake in Los Angeles before going on to Stanford, where Jason helped lead the Cardinal to both the Elite Eight and Final Four.

Respected throughout the league as a “pro’s pro,” Collins has remained close to the NBA as an ambassador since retiring in 2014.

This article first appeared on Hoops Wire and was syndicated with permission.

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