The basketball world was already reeling from the tragic passing of 29-year-old Memphis Grizzlies star Brandon Clarke when another devastating loss struck. Jason Collins, a 13-year NBA veteran and longtime NBA Cares ambassador, died after battling glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive forms of brain cancer. With the playoffs taking a backseat to grief, the San Antonio Spurs honored both players with a heartfelt tribute before Game 4.
Clarke’s death remains under investigation, but Collins’ battle was public and courageous. He had revealed his stage 4 glioblastoma diagnosis in December, calling it “one of the deadliest forms of brain cancer.” Inspired by his grandmother’s battle with stomach cancer, he chose to speak openly about his fight. “To me it’s like, ‘Shut up and go play against Shaq.’ You want the challenge? This is the challenge,” he once said. He sought experimental treatment overseas, but the cancer returned, and he passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family.
The news sparked an outpouring of support for Collins, who had made history on April 29, 2013, when he announced in a Sports Illustrated essay, “I’m a 34-year-old NBA center. I’m Black. And I’m gay.” He became the first openly gay active male athlete in any of the four major U.S. professional sports leagues, earning praise from Kobe Bryant and President Obama. Both Clarke and Collins were honored at the Frost Bank Center, where the Spurs held a moment of silence.
“The NBA family mourns the passing of two of its own,” the arena announcer said. “Brandon Clarke, a beloved member of the Memphis Grizzlies since 2019, whose leadership and passion earned him respect throughout the Memphis community and around the league, passed away at the age of 29. And 13-year NBA player and NBA Cares ambassador Jason Collins died after a long battle with brain cancer. He broke barriers that will positively impact the sports world for generations to come, and he’ll always be remembered for his bravery and kindness. We ask that you join us in a moment of silence in honor of Brandon Clarke and Jason Collins.”
Fans were heartbroken by the double tragedy. “Never thought losing two legends in a day, saddest day in NBA 💔 rip fly high 🕊️,” one wrote. Others praised the Spurs for acknowledging a moment bigger than basketball. “Respectful move by Spurs. Some moments are bigger than the game, this is one of them,” a fan said. NBA commissioner Adam Silver issued emotional statements honoring both players, calling Collins “a pioneer whose impact extended far beyond basketball.”
Collins’ legacy as a barrier-breaker and fighter continued to resonate. He attended Stanford games and spent time with his husband despite his illness, documenting his journey on Instagram. A netizen reflected, “Devastating news. Jason Collins was a pioneer and a fighter. Rest in peace 🕊️.” The NBA community lost two stars who touched lives far beyond the court.