Charles Barkley Honors Jason Collins, Says Homophobia Persists 10 Years After Historic Coming Out
Updated
Updated · Awful Announcing · May 14
Charles Barkley Honors Jason Collins, Says Homophobia Persists 10 Years After Historic Coming Out
4 articles · Updated · Awful Announcing · May 14
On TNT's "Inside the NBA," Charles Barkley called Jason Collins' decision to come out "courageous" and said the former center changed sports by becoming the first active openly gay player in the four major U.S. leagues.
Barkley said Collins knowingly faced "scrutiny," "hatred" and "vitriol," arguing that another active player coming out today would still be a major story because society and sports remain deeply homophobic.
The tribute followed news that Collins died at 47 after a year-long battle with brain cancer; Barkley said hearing of his death "just sucked" and praised him as a "shining example" for people struggling with sexuality.
The segment also addressed Brandon Clarke's death at 29 in Los Angeles, which NBC Los Angeles reported is being investigated as a possible drug overdose, while Shaquille O'Neal and Kenny Smith added memories of Collins and his broader impact.
Barkley's comments framed Collins' legacy as both a breakthrough and a reminder that openly gay athletes still face barriers more than a decade after his landmark announcement.
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13 Years After Jason Collins: The NBA’s Ongoing Struggle with LGBTQ+ Inclusion and the Unfulfilled Promise of Progress
Overview
On May 12, 2026, the NBA community was deeply affected by the deaths of Jason Collins and Brandon Clarke, leading to league-wide mourning and a moment of silence by the San Antonio Spurs. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver described the loss as losing members of an 'adopted family,' highlighting the emotional impact on the league. Tributes from across the NBA united the community in grief, while Collins' family expressed gratitude for the support and care received. This collective response underscored the strong bonds within the NBA and the lasting influence of Collins and Clarke on the sport and its people.