Longtime NBA center Jason Collins is undergoing treatment for a brain tumor, his family announced today in a statement released by the league (Twitter link).
“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,” the statement reads.
Collins made history in 2013 as the first openly gay athlete to play in the NBA, NFL, MLB or NHL. He became an ambassador for the NBA after his career ended.
The 18th pick of the 2001 draft, Collins played 13 years in the league, having retired in 2014 after spending his final season with the Nets, the team with which he spent most of his career.
While Collins didn’t put up gaudy numbers, he was lauded for his professionalism and solid work on the defensive end, according to Kurt Helin of NBC Sports, who notes the 46-year-old married his longtime partner, film producer Brunson Green, earlier this year.
We at Hoops Rumors send our best wishes to Collins and his family.