Celebrities & Players React to Jason Collins Coming Out as Gay

NBA player Jason Collins revealed earlier today (April 29) that he is gay and he became the first openly gay and active athlete on a major American sports team.

Celebrities, fellow athletes, the NBA, and even a former President of the United States have reacted to 34-year-old basketball player’s courageous move to be open about his sexuality.

“I have known Jason Collins since he was Chelsea‘s classmate and friend at Stanford. Jason’s announcement today is an important moment for professional sports and in the history of the LGBT community,” Bill Clinton said in a statement (via Politico). “It is also the straightforward statement of a good man who wants no more than what so many of us seek: to be able to be who we are; to do our work; to build families and to contribute to our communities. For so many members of the LGBT community, these simple goals remain elusive. I hope that everyone, particularly Jason‘s colleagues in the NBA, the media and his many fans extend to him their support and the respect he has earned.”

Click inside to read reactions from celebrities and sports stars…

Jason’s brother Jarron Collins: “At the end of the day, this is what matters: He’s my brother, he’s a great guy, and I want him to be happy. I’ll love him and I’ll support him and, if necessary, I’ll protect him.”

Chelsea Clinton: “Very proud of my friend Jason Collins for having the strength & courage to be the first openly gay player in the NBA.”

Spike Lee: “Jason Collins just did Beautiful Thing. Be Yourself.”

Kobe Bryant: “Proud of @jasoncollins34. Don’t suffocate who u r because of the ignorance of others #courage #support #mambaarmystandup #BYOU”

Chris Kluwe: “Big kudos to @JasonCollins34. Living proof that your sexuality has nothing to do with your athletic ability.”

NBA Commissioner David Stern: “As Adam Silver and I said to Jason, we have known the Collins family since Jason and Jarron joined the NBA in 2001 and they have been exemplary members of the NBA family. 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.”

Washington Wizards team statement: “We are extremely proud of Jason and support his decision to live his life proudly and openly. He has been a leader on and off the court and an outstanding teammate throughout his NBA career. Those qualities will continue to serve him both as a player and as a positive role model for others of all sexual orientation.”

Chrissy Teigen: “I dunno who you are Jason Collins but I am extremely proud of you if that means anything.”

Eric Stonestreet: “awesome, amazing, game changer.”

Laura Benanti: “Jason Collins is my new hero. What a brave and wonderful thing he has done. #IWillNeverTweetAboutSportsAgain”

Lance Bass: “Congrats @jasoncollins34 !! Giant leap for sports – and the conversation continues!”