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Jason Kidd and Jason Collins defend together during their time with the New Jersey Nets, where they reached back-to-back NBA Finals in 2002 and 2003.
Former Brooklyn Nets head coach Jason Kidd paid an emotional tribute to Jason Collins following the former NBA center’s death at 47, reflecting on a relationship that spanned more than a decade as both teammates and coach-player.
“This one hurts,” Kidd wrote on X. “Jason Collins was a pioneer. He had courage like you’ve never seen. He was an incredible teammate. And having him in Brooklyn at the start of my coaching journey meant so much.”
Kidd’s message resonated across the NBA, capturing both the personal and historical significance of Collins’ life and career.
Kidd and Collins were teammates on the New Jersey Nets for seven seasons from 2001 to 2008, helping lead the franchise to back-to-back NBA Finals appearances in 2002 and 2003.
During that stretch, Collins served as a physical, defense-first center, while Kidd anchored the offense as one of the league’s premier point guards. Their long tenure together built a strong bond that extended beyond the court.
Collins spent the majority of his NBA career with the Nets franchise, appearing in 532 games across his New Jersey and Brooklyn stints. He averaged 4.3 points, 4.4 rebounds and 1.1 assists, playing a key defensive role during one of the most successful stretches in team history.
GettyJason Collins addresses reporters while with the Brooklyn Nets after becoming the first openly gay active NBA player in 2013.
Kidd was also among the first NBA figures to publicly support Collins when he made history in 2013.
In a Sports Illustrated cover story, Collins became the first openly gay active player in a major American team sport, a groundbreaking moment for the league and professional sports.
Shortly after the announcement, Kidd voiced his support on social media.
“Jason’s sexuality doesn’t change the fact that he is a great friend and was a great teammate,” Kidd wrote at the time.
Collins’ decision was met with widespread support across the NBA, including from players, coaches and league officials, helping reshape conversations around inclusion in sports.
Later that same season, Collins reunited with Kidd in Brooklyn, where Kidd was serving as head coach in his first year.
Collins appeared in 22 games for the Nets during the 2013-14 season, providing veteran leadership and defensive depth for a team that advanced to the Eastern Conference semifinals.
“And having him in Brooklyn at the start of my coaching journey meant so much,” Kidd added in his tribute.
Kidd’s message also underscored the personal impact Collins had on those around him.
“Those who knew him were blessed to call him a friend,” Kidd wrote. “You are already missed my brother. Rest in power.”
This one hurts. Jason Collins was a pioneer. He had courage like you’ve never seen. He was an incredible teammate. And having him in Brooklyn at the start of my coaching journey meant so much. Those who knew him were blessed to call him a friend. You are already missed my
While Collins’ statistical production was modest, he was widely respected as a dependable teammate and locker-room presence.
His legacy extended far beyond the court. By publicly coming out in 2013, Collins became a trailblazer whose courage helped pave the way for greater acceptance and inclusion in the NBA.
Collins’ death has prompted tributes from across the league, with former teammates, coaches and executives honoring both his career and his character.
For the Nets, Collins represents a bridge between eras — from the New Jersey teams that reached the Finals to the Brooklyn squad that embraced a historic cultural moment.
For Kidd, the loss is deeply personal — a reminder of a teammate and friend whose influence continues to resonate across the NBA.
Alder Almo is a veteran NBA reporter for Heavy.com, covering the New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors. He brings over 20 years of experience across local and international media, including broadcast, print and digital. He previously covered the Knicks for Empire Sports Media and the NBA for Off the Glass. Originally from the Philippines, he is now based in Jersey City, New Jersey. More about Alder Almo
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