Jason Collins went from being known only to NBA fans to a national figure within hours on Monday after Sports Illustrated published his heartfelt essay, in which he announced that he is gay. The 12-year veteran because the first ever active player in American team sports to come out and he says that this has been the happiest time of his life.
“I know that I, right now, am the happiest that I've ever been in my life,” he told Good Morning America in his first interview since his essay hit the web. “A huge weight has been lifted. I've already been out to my family and my friends, but just to, you know, sort of rip the Band-Aid off and come out on my own terms.”
In his essay, he wrote that he never imagined that he would be the first and always wondered when another person would raise their hand. But he finally decided to do it and he hopes that he is an example for other gay athletes.
“I'm ready to raise my hand but, you know, you still look around like, 'OK, come on, guys,” he told GMA. “It's time for someone else in the room to raise their hand and say, 'You know what? Yeah, so big deal. I can still play basketball. I can still help the team win, and that's what's most important.’”
Collins has played for six teams during his career, and split this past season between the Celtics and the Wizards. He’s a free agent now, but he’s convinced that his decision to come out will not affect his chances at getting signed.
“The NBA is like a brotherhood...And I'm looking at it that we'll all support each other on and off the court,” he said.
Collins has won overwhelming support from fellow basketball players like Kobe Bryant to former President Bill Clinton.
In a Statement, NBA Commissioner David Stern also expressed his support. “Jason has been a widely respected player and teammate throughout his career and we are proud he has assumed the leadership mantle on this very important issue,” Stern said.
In his GMA interview, Collins commented, “I hope that every player makes a decision that leads to their own happiness.”