Jason Collins made a huge announcement on the cover of Sports Illustrated this week, as he became the first active openly gay player in all of the four major sports and the free agent made the news on Monday as SI.com released the story and behind the scenes information.
According to SI.com, Collins felt it was the right time to tell his story, as there has been lots of support from around sports, including from some NFL players and other leagues and he decided it was the right time to come out. Collins is a free agent after playing for the Boston Celtics and the Washington Wizards and head coach Doc Rivers said he hoped the announcement was a turning point.
Collins has been receiving support from many players and figures on social media and Twitter, including Kevin Durant, Martina Navratilova, Bill Clinton, Kobe Bryant, David Aldridge, Baron Davis, Chelsea Clinton, Michael Strahan, Chris Kluwe, Spike Lee and the NBA among many more. Collins has been a solid player while being on six different teams in 12 years and he has made the playoffs nine times and started in the finals twice. His move may be the first straw that allows the rumored NFL players to come out, as he has gotten support and he is in a different sport, which could help soften the blow for those players.
Some reactions:
--Former Spurs player Bruce Bowen
Bruce Bowen
@Bowen12
Really hope people will RESPECT Jason Collins for his decision to come out. Just glad he can now relax and not be afraid to be who he is.
-- Quote from Thunder F Kevin Durant
John Rohde
@RohdeOK
@KDTrey5 on Jason Collins: "If he's happy, that's cool with me. Seems like a great guy ... I support him."
-- Nuggets' Kenneth Faried
Kenneth Faried
@KennethFaried35
Wow this is amazing all smiles.. So so happy Jason Collins came out & announce he was openly GAY ALL SUPPORT OVER HERE #ATHLETEALLY #LGBT
-- Russell Simmons (Third richest figure in hip hop)
Russell Simmons
@UncleRUSH
proud of Washington Wizards' player Jason Collins (@JasonCollins34) for coming out. we will stand with you as you continue on your journey.
Former NFL DE Michael Strahan
Michael Strahan
@michaelstrahan
So proud of @jasoncollins34 for having the courage to stand up and out for who he is. I support, respect and salute you!!
Bill Clinton on Jason Collins
POLITICO
@politico
Bill Clinton praises NBA player Jason Collins coming out: politi.co/Yh33pT
