First openly gay major-sport athlete turns out to be from the NBA, not the NFL
When The Daily Circuit aired a piece last week about the lack of openly gay athletes in professional sports, we duly reported the hot rumor that a player in the NFL was about to come out. If there is such a player about to make a dramatic announcement, some of his thunder has been appropriated by Jason Collins of the NBA. Collins, a free agent who ended last season with the Washington Wizards, wrote a piece for Sports Illustrated, published Monday, in which he declares:
"I'm a 34-year-old NBA center. I'm black. And I'm gay. ... I've reached that enviable state in life in which I can do pretty much what I want. And what I want is to continue to play basketball. I still love the game, and I still have something to offer. My coaches and teammates recognize that. At the same time, I want to be genuine and authentic and truthful."
To revisit last week's show, including an interview with former Viking Esera Tuaolo, go here. The Sports Illustrated piece is here.
Political Coverage Powered by You
Your gift today creates a more connected Minnesota. MPR News is your trusted resource for election coverage, reporting and breaking news. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.