Former Harvard-Westlake standout and retired NBA player Jason Collins is receiving treatment for a brain tumor, the league announced Thursday.
In a statement released on behalf of Collins and his family, the NBA said:
“Jason and his family welcome your support and prayers and kindly ask for privacy as they dedicate their attention to Jason’s health and well-being.”
The 46-year-old from Northridge rose to prominence in the mid-1990s alongside twin brother Jarron. Together they led Harvard-Westlake to back-to-back state Division III championships in 1996 and 1997. Collins earned Division III state player of the year both seasons, and his mark on California high school basketball history lasted well over a decade. His 1,500 career rebounds remained a CIF state record until 2010, when Hemet West Valley’s Joe Burton passed him with 1,721 boards.
Collins went on to star at Stanford, where he earned first-team All-Pac-10 honors in his senior season. Drafted 18th overall by the Houston Rockets in 2001 and traded on draft night to the New Jersey Nets, Collins carved out a 13-year NBA career. He averaged 3.6 points and 3.7 rebounds while suiting up for the Nets, Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, and Washington Wizards.
Collins made history off the court as well. In April 2013, he came out publicly as gay in an open letter. Several months later, he signed with the Brooklyn Nets and on February 23, 2014, when the Nets faced the Los Angeles Lakers, he became the first active NBA player to come out as gay. He retired at the end of that season and transitioned into work with the league as an NBA Cares ambassador.
In May, Collins married longtime partner Brunson Green, marking another milestone in a life that has broken barriers and inspired countless fans.
For now, his family says the focus is entirely on his recovery. The NBA’s statement made clear that Collins’ health is the priority and asked for privacy while he undergoes treatment.
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