After NBA player Jason Collins became the first athlete in a major American sport to come out, celebrities and athletes took to Twitter to share their thoughts. Below are some of the best ones:
“Thank you to everyone who has reached out to me thru email, texts, calls, tweets, letters, and every other form of communication. #support” … “All the support I have received today is truly inspirational. I knew that I was choosing the road less traveled but I'm not walking it alone.” -Jason Collins
“Proud of @jasoncollins34. Don't suffocate who u r because of the ignorance of others #courage #support #mambaarmystandup #BYOU” -Kobe Bryant
“I'm proud to call Jason Collins a friend.” -Bill Clinton
“Very proud of my friend Jason Collins for having the strength & courage to be the first openly gay player in the NBA.” -Chelsea Clinton
“Congratulations @JasonCollins34 4 takin' that 1st #Fierce step forward 4 the @NBA! Makin' me & our hometown LA proud!” -Tyra Banks
“@NBA center @JasonCollins34 is the 1st out player on a US major league team. I'm overwhelmed by your bravery, Jason, & sending so much love” -Ellen DeGeneres
“Big support to @jasoncollins34. That's not an easy thing you did.” -Howard Stern
“proud of Washington Wizards' player Jason Collins (@JasonCollins34) for coming out. we will stand with you as you continue on your journey.” -Russel Simmons
“Jason's sexuality doesn't change the fact that he is a great friend and was a great teammate. @jasoncollins34” -Jason Kidd