Image Credit: Variety via Getty Images Former NBA player Jason Collins died on May 12, 2026, at age 47 after battling stage 4 glioblastoma. Best known for becoming the first openly gay active player in a major North American professional sports league, Jason made history both on and off the court during his 13-year basketball career. "We are heartbroken to share that Jason Collins, our beloved husband, son, brother and uncle, has died after a valiant fight with glioblastoma," his family said in a statement released through the NBA.