In an upcoming column to appear inside Sports Illustrated, Jason Collins announced that he's gay.
According to CNN, the 12-year NBA veteran is the first active openly homosexual athlete to compete in any of the four major American-teamed sports.
In the first-person essay Collins' writes, "I'm a 34-year-old NBA center. I'm black. And I'm gay."
He continued, "I wish I wasn't the kid in the classroom raising his hand and saying, 'I'm different.' If I had my way, someone else would have already done this. Nobody has, which is why I'm raising my hand."
Former President of the United States, Bill Clinton, weighed in on Collins' announcement, as stated by NBC News.
"Jason's announcement today is an important moment for professional sports and in the history of the LGBT community," Clinton said. "It is also the straightforward statement of a good man who wants no more than what so many of us seek: to be able to be who we are; to do our work; to build families and to contribute to our communities."
The 34-year old free agent who has played for the Washington Wizards most recently, had the Human Rights Campaign chiming in with positive words.
"Jason Collins has forever changed the face of sports" and compared the announcement to Jackie Robinson entering the major league, as reported by CNN.
"At a time when millions are reflecting on the life and legacy of Jackie Robinson, Jason Collins is a hero for our own times," said the Human Rights Campaign.
Collins has played for a number of teams throughout his career including the Boston Celtics, New Jersey Nets and the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Collins' announcement comes after former NBA player, John Amaechi and WNBA player, Sheryl Swoopes in 2005.
