Jason Collins is widely recognized as the first openly gay active male athlete in North American professional team sports, a barrier breaking moment that reshaped conversations around identity and inclusion. His public stance on and off the court continues to influence policies, representation, and public understanding of LGBTQ athletes across leagues.
As a center in the NBA, Collins competed for more than a decade with multiple teams before his pioneering announcement in 2013, and his legacy is measured not only in statistics but in cultural impact and the visibility he brought to the sports world. The following sections explore the specifics of his jersey number, career highlights, values, and lasting influence in organized basketball.
| Aspect | Details | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Athlete | Jason Collins | Official player profile |
| Primary Jersey Number | 98 | Most associated with his coming out season |
| League | NBA | National Basketball Association |
| Position | Center | Played both center and occasionally power forward |
Career Journey and Teams
Path through the NBA
Jason Collins spent over a decade moving between NBA franchises, including the Houston Rockets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Memphis Grizzlies, Dallas Mavericks, Boston Celtics, Washington Wizards, and Philadelphia 76ers. Each stop added layers to his experience and resilience as a veteran leader.
2013 Season and Announcement Impact
Breaking barriers on the court
During the 2012-13 season with the Washington Wizards, Collins became the first openly gay athlete in a major U.S. professional team sport while actively playing. His decision to live publicly as his authentic self influenced front offices, media coverage, and fan attitudes toward inclusivity in sports.
Jersey Number Significance and Identity
Why number 98 matters
The choice to wear number 98 is closely tied to his public coming out in April 2013, a moment that defined that season and became a turning point in professional sports. This number serves as a reminder of courage, visibility, and the ongoing work needed to support diversity in locker rooms and stadiums.
Values, Advocacy, and Legacy
Beyond statistics
Collins leveraged his platform to advocate for LGBTQ youth, spoke at schools and community events, and collaborated with leagues to strengthen nondiscrimination policies. His emphasis on character, teamwork, and respect has left a blueprint for athletes seeking to contribute positively beyond scoring and rebounding.
Moving Forward in Sports and Inclusion
Collins' story continues to inspire policy discussions, educational programs, and representation initiatives that aim to make professional and amateur sports more welcoming for everyone, regardless of identity.
- Recognize the importance of visible role models in advancing inclusion
- Support policies that protect LGBTQ athletes and staff at all levels
- Encourage open dialogue about identity, respect, and teamwork
- Celebrate milestones in diversity while committing to ongoing progress
FAQ
Reader questions
What NBA team was Jason Collins on when he came out?
He was with the Washington Wizards during the 2012-13 season when he publicly announced that he was gay.
Which jersey number is Jason Collins most known for?
Number 98, which he wore during his landmark season as the first openly gay active NBA player.
Did Jason Collins win any championships in his career?
No, he did not win an NBA championship, though he reached the playoffs with several teams during his career.
What is Jason Collins doing now in sports and advocacy?
He remains engaged in advocacy, public speaking, and mentoring, focusing on inclusion, respect, and supporting the next generation of athletes.