TL;DR
- Jason Collins, the first openly gay NBA player, has died at 47.
- He was married to Brunson Green just months before his passing.
- Collins was diagnosed with brain cancer in September 2025.
- Their wedding took place in Austin, Texas, in May 2025.
- Collins’ legacy continues to inspire LGBTQ+ athletes.
In a heartbreaking turn of events, the sports world is mourning the loss of Jason Collins, the NBA’s first openly gay player, who has passed away at the age of 47. Collins, who bravely came out in 2013, was a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ representation in sports and a beacon of hope for many. His husband, Brunson Green, now carries the weight of their shared love and the legacy Collins leaves behind.
Collins was diagnosed with a brain tumor in September 2025, and just three months later, he revealed he had brain cancer. The news was devastating, especially coming just months after he and Green exchanged vows in a beautiful ceremony in Austin, Texas, in May 2025. Friends and family, including notable figures like actress Octavia Spencer and Collins’ former teammate Richard Jefferson, were there to celebrate their love.
The couple had been together for nearly a decade, officially confirming their relationship to The Hollywood Reporter in 2014, the same year Collins retired from professional basketball. Their engagement came during a memorable Pride Night with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2023, a moment that marked a significant milestone in their journey together.
Brunson Green is not just known as Collins’ husband but also as a talented film producer. He has worked on various projects, including the Oscar-nominated film The Help and more recently, Regretting You, based on the popular novel by Colleen Hoover. Green’s contributions to the film industry are noteworthy, but it’s his love for Collins that truly shines through in this tragic time.
In a 2023 interview with Sports Illustrated, Collins shared how he first met Green at a housewarming party, where they were both at different points in their lives. “It was meant to be,” Collins said, reflecting on their journey together. Their love story is one of serendipity, resilience, and unwavering support, a testament to what true partnership looks like.
As the LGBTQ+ community and sports fans alike reflect on Collins’ impact, his legacy as a pioneer will not be forgotten. He not only broke barriers in the NBA but also inspired countless individuals to live authentically and embrace their true selves. His story is one of courage, love, and the fight for acceptance.
For more on Jason Collins and his incredible journey, check out our previous articles on his passing and the legacy he leaves behind in the world of sports.