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Jason Collins (left) defends Kevin Garnett during a Minnesota Timberwolves game. Collins, who was part of the Kevin Love draft-night trade, died at 47.
The Minnesota Timberwolves and NBA community are mourning the death of former center Jason Collins, who died at 47 after a battle with Stage 4 glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive forms of brain cancer.
Collins, a 13-year NBA veteran and NBA Cares ambassador, died peacefully at his home, according to ESPN and NBA insider Shams Charania. His family confirmed the news on Tuesday.
“We are heartbroken to share that Jason Collins … has died after a valiant fight with glioblastoma,” the family said in a statement to ESPN. “Jason changed lives in unexpected ways and was an inspiration to all who knew him.”
Collins revealed in late 2025 that he had been diagnosed with Stage 4 glioblastoma. Despite undergoing treatment, including experimental options overseas, his condition worsened in recent weeks.
Glioblastoma is among the most aggressive forms of brain cancer, often progressing rapidly even with treatment.
Collins’ time with the Timberwolves came as part of one of the most significant trades in franchise history.
On June 26, 2008, Collins was dealt to Minnesota in an eight-player trade involving Kevin Love and O.J. Mayo shortly after the NBA Draft. The Timberwolves traded the rights to the No. 3 overall pick, Mayo, to the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for the rights to UCLA forward Love, the No. 5 pick.
As part of the deal, Minnesota also sent Marko Jaric, Antoine Walker and Greg Buckner to Memphis, while acquiring Mike Miller, Brian Cardinal and Collins.
Collins appeared in 31 games for the Timberwolves, averaging 2.3 rebounds, 1.8 points and 0.4 blocks. While his role was limited, he provided veteran presence during a transitional period for the franchise.
The Timberwolves acknowledged Collins’ passing on social media, reposting a statement from NBA commissioner Adam Silver.
“Jason Collins’ impact and influence extended far beyond basketball as he helped make the NBA, WNBA and larger sports community more inclusive and welcoming for future generations,” Silver said. “He exemplified outstanding leadership and professionalism throughout his 13-year NBA career and in his dedicated work as an NBA Cares Ambassador.”
“Jason will be remembered not only for breaking barriers, but also for the kindness and humanity that defined his life and touched so many others.”
Silver added that the NBA sends “heartfelt condolences to Jason’s husband, Brunson, and his family, friends and colleagues across our leagues.”
Collins played 13 seasons in the NBA and made history in 2013 when he publicly came out as gay, becoming the first openly gay active player in any of North America’s four major men’s professional sports leagues.
His announcement was widely praised and marked a turning point for inclusion in professional sports.
After retiring in 2014, Collins continued his work with the league as an NBA Cares ambassador.
He is survived by his husband, Brunson Green, his parents and his twin brother, Jarron Collins.
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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