Jason Collins, first openly gay player in NBA history, dead at 47

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Justin Edmonds / Getty Images Share article9The NBA announced former veteran center Jason Collins has passed away at the age of 47. The league released a statement on behalf of the family of Collins, who spent 13 seasons in the NBA. “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 those who admire 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 nurse. Our family will miss him dearly.” On April 29, 2013, Collins became the league’s first active, openly gay male athlete in North American sports to come out. He was a first-round draft pick in 2001 and an All-Pac 10 player at Stanford. Collins was drafted by the Rockets and then traded to the Nets. He was on the latter’s two NBA Finals teams in 2002 and 2003. His twin brother, Jarron, is an assistant coach for the New Orleans Pelicans. Spot the pattern. Connect the terms Find the hidden link between sports terms