Jason Collins, NBA player since 2001, came out as gay. I don’t know anything about sports, like, at all, but I know that it’s a big deal for an athlete to come out. TMZ says that this makes him, “the first major active American male pro athlete to come out of the closet.”
Mr. Collins spoke to Sports Illustrated. Here’s what he had to say (via TMZ):
I’m a 34-year-old NBA center. I’m black. And I’m gay.
I didn’t set out to be the first openly gay athlete playing in a major American team sport. But since I am, I’m happy to start the conversation.
I’m glad I can stop hiding and refocus on my 13th NBA season.
Kobe Bryant (ugh) and Ex Mr. Eva Longoria (that’s how we know him here in the celeb gossip world, tbh) Tony Parker tweeted their messages of support and congratulations. From Bryant:
Proud of @jasoncollins34. Don’t suffocate who u r because of the ignorance of others.
You know Bryant was the first to tweet something supportive after his incredibly stupid homophobic statement in 2011.
And from Mr. Parker:
Really hope people will RESPECT Jason Collins for his decision to come out. Just glad he can now relax and not be afraid to be who he is.
NFL player Mike Wallace (Miami Dolphins) tweeted a less than supportive reaction:
All these beautiful women in the world and guys wanna mess with other guys SMH (shakin’ my head) …
Jesus Christ, dude. Wallace retracted the tweet and then tweeted this explanation:
Never said anything was right or wrong I just said I don’t understand!! Deeply sorry for anyone that I offended.
I kind of understand now where he’s coming from. He’s not a jerk, he’s just clueless. I guess?
I don’t understand how he doesn’t understand. Some people, man.
HE’S BLACK?!?!