Jason Collins' coming out receives support among NBA players, others

When NBA player Jason Collins publicly came out in an article published by Sports Illustrated, it was a monumental moment in pro sports. But he's already receiving a bevy of support.

By Kevin Zimmerman Apr 29, 2013, 12:27pm EDT

NBA center Jason Collins made a significant step forward in the pro sports world on Monday when Sports Illustrated published his column on coming out as a gay athlete. It marked the first time a current pro athlete in any major sport came out, and the obvious reasoning for it never happening was because it's such uncharted territory. How would people respond?

More: Outsports: Jason Collins comes out as gay

Quickly it became clear that many influential voices support Collins, and that perhaps is progress in making openly gay athletes more commonplace. From one of the NBA's most respected players in Kobe Bryant, to former President Bill Clinton, to Collins' twin brother, to NBA commissioner David Stern, the support behind the monumental news was widespread.

"This is uncharted territory, and no one can predict how it will play out," Jarron Collins wrote in support of his brother. "It's a big deal -- but it's also not a big deal. When the media crush is over, Jason will have the strength to deal with whatever challenges come from being openly gay."

The support from Jason Collins' brother was only the beginning.

Proud of @jasoncollins34. Don't suffocate who u r because of the ignorance of others #courage #support #mambaarmystandup #BYOU
— Kobe Bryant (@kobebryant) April 29, 2013

Congratulations to Jason - society couldn't hope for a more eloquent & positive role model: buff.ly/10OvOMd
— John Amaechi OBE (@JohnAmaechi) April 29, 2013

The time has come. Maximum respect. RT @baron_davis: I am so proud of my bro @jasoncollins34 for being real. ... tmi.me/TGSBh
— Steve Nash (@SteveNash) April 29, 2013

NBA commissioner David Stern: "Jason has been a widely respected player and teammate throughout his career and we are proud (cont)...
— Chris Mannix (@ChrisMannixSI) April 29, 2013

Stern: "...he has assumed the leadership mantle on this very important issue."
— Chris Mannix (@ChrisMannixSI) April 29, 2013

As a firm supporter of the LGBTT, of course I support & applaud @jasoncollins34 brave decision. Facing stigma head on, thank you.#BeWell
— Royce White (@Highway_30) April 29, 2013

I am so proud of my bro @jasoncollins34 for being real. #FTheHaters bit.ly/12J9el5
— Baron Davis (@Baron_Davis) April 29, 2013

MT @nrarmour: Bucks' John Henson says wont think differently of Collins. "He's one of us, an NBA player, and we have to treat him like that"
— K L Chouinard (@AnaheimAmigos) April 29, 2013

Wizards' president Ernie Grunfeld:

"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."