Jason Collins, the NBA’s first openly gay player, is suffering from a brain tumor and is currently receiving treatment.
Per The Associated Press, the news of Collins’ diagnosis was announced by his family on Thursday. “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,” his family said in a statement.
Collins, 46, came out as gay in 2013, making him the first openly gay athlete in any of the top four sports leagues in North America. After coming out, the 7-foot center received an outpouring of support from notable individuals, including Kobe Bryant and former NBA commissioner David Stern.
During his 13-year professional career, Collins, who is currently an NBA ambassador, played for teams including the New Jersey Nets, Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, and Washington Wizards. The 46-year-old then re-signed with the Nets in February 2014 after the franchise relocated to Brooklyn.
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During his return to the Nets, Collins decided to wear jersey number 98 to pay tribute to Matthew Shepard, a gay man who was murdered in 1998 because of his sexuality, TMZ reported.
“When I put on my jersey, I was making a statement to myself, my family, and my friends,” Collins said in reference to the tribute.
Collins ultimately retired from the NBA in November 2014. He and his long-time partner, Brunson Green, tied the knot in May.
