Jason Collins cause of death: How did trailblazing big man die?
Collins enjoyed a 12-year NBA career, but he may be better known for who he was off the court rather than the paint guarding big man on it.
On the court, Jason Collins was a success. The 7-foot big man was a top 20 draft pick. He played a dozen years in the NBA, starting more than 500 total games as a deterrent in the paint.
Off the court, Collins was a pioneer. He was the first openly gay player in league history, coming out in 2013 before wrapping up his career with 22 games as a Brooklyn Net -- his sixth home in a long career. His story shined a spotlight on a utilitarian center who averaged fewer than four points per game in his career but suddenly meant a lot to fans who may have felt marginalized in the stands.
Unfortunately, what should have been a lengthy and peaceful retirement was cut short. Collins died Tuesday, May 12 -- approximately six months after announcing he'd been diagnosed with Stage 4 glioblastoma. Glioblastoma is one of the deadliest forms of brain cancer.
You can read about his journey -- and the dream cut short by cancer -- in his own words in the touching essay he wrote for The Players Tribune back in 2014. https://t. co/14aH3nRcUL — The Players’ Tribune (@PlayersTribune) May 12, 2026 Collins was 47 years old.