Charles Barkley on gay athletes: ‘You’re just stupid’ if you don’t think there’s more players in NFL, NBA, MLB
SB Nation • • sports
Key Points:
- Jason Collins, the first active NBA player to come out as gay in 2013, passed away at 47 from stage-4 glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer.
- Collins was celebrated not only for his basketball career, spanning 13 years and six teams, but also for his courage in living openly as a gay athlete in a homophobic sports culture.
- Charles Barkley honored Collins' bravery on Inside the NBA, highlighting ongoing homophobia in society and sports, and emphasizing the presence of many closeted gay athletes.
- Barkley also addressed homophobia within the black community and encouraged individuals struggling with their sexuality to embrace their true selves.
- Collins’ legacy extends beyond his on-court contributions, serving as a beacon of hope and progress for LGBTQ+ athletes in professional sports.