Jason Collins Biography: Age, Height, Net Worth & NBA Legacy
Jason Collins is more than just a former NBA center — he’s a historic figure in American sports. Known for his solid defensive play and courageous personal journey, Collins made headlines as the first openly gay athlete to play in one of the four major North American pro sports leagues. This article explores Jason Collins’ age, height, net worth, and his lasting impact on and off the court.
📅 How Old is Jason Collins?
- Date of Birth: December 2, 1978
- Age (as of 2025): 46 years old
- Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius
- Place of Birth: Northridge, California, USA
Jason Collins was born and raised in California and developed a passion for basketball at an early age alongside his twin brother, Jarron Collins (also an NBA player and now a coach).
📏 Jason Collins Height and Physical Stats
- Height: 7 feet 0 inches (2.13 meters)
- Weight: 255 lbs (116 kg)
- Wingspan: Approximately 7’2”
- Position: Center
Collins’ imposing height and strong frame made him an effective post defender and screen-setter — key roles in every team he played for.
💰 Jason Collins Net Worth (2025)
- Estimated Net Worth: $16 million
💵 Sources of Income:
- NBA Salaries: Over $34 million earned during his career
- Endorsements & Appearances
- Speaking Engagements & Advocacy Work
- Media & Consulting Roles (LGBTQ+ and diversity organizations)
After retirement, Jason Collins became a highly respected advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports, which has further solidified his reputation and post-NBA income streams.
🏀 NBA Career Highlights and Teams
📌 College Career:
- College: Stanford University (1997–2001)
- Helped lead the team to multiple NCAA tournament appearances.
📌 NBA Career:
- Drafted: 2001 NBA Draft – 1st Round, 18th overall by the Houston Rockets (traded to New Jersey)
- NBA Teams:
- New Jersey Nets
- Memphis Grizzlies
- Minnesota Timberwolves
- Atlanta Hawks
- Boston Celtics
- Washington Wizards
- Brooklyn Nets
⭐ Career Highlights:
- Reached the NBA Finals twice with the New Jersey Nets (2002 & 2003)
- Played 13 seasons in the NBA
- Renowned for tough interior defense, leadership, and basketball IQ
🌈 Historic Coming Out and LGBTQ+ Advocacy
In April 2013, Jason Collins made history by publicly coming out as gay in a cover story for Sports Illustrated, becoming the first openly gay active player in any of the four major U.S. pro sports.
🔹 Key Milestones:
- Praised by President Barack Obama and other leaders for his courage
- Became a symbol of inclusion and acceptance in professional sports
- Inducted into LGBTQ+ advocacy halls of fame
- Continues to work with the NBA and LGBTQ+ organizations to promote equality
🧠 Jason Collins Today: Life After Basketball
After retiring in 2014, Collins remained in the public eye through:
- Public Speaking: Advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- NBA Ambassador: Works with the league on community outreach.
- Media Appearances: Featured on major networks and platforms like ESPN, CNN, and NBC.
- Philanthropy: Actively supports youth mentorship and anti-bullying initiatives.
🧾 Quick Facts About Jason Collins
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jason Paul Collins |
| Twin Brother | Jarron Collins |
| College | Stanford University |
| NBA Career | 2001–2014 |
| Jersey Numbers | 34, 98 (worn to honor Matthew Shepard) |
| Sexual Orientation | Openly gay |
📌 Conclusion: Jason Collins’ Lasting Impact
Jason Collins may not have been an NBA superstar in stats, but his influence is immeasurable. From elite college athlete to NBA veteran and trailblazing role model, his legacy is about more than basketball — it’s about courage, authenticity, and change.
❓ FAQs About Jason Collins
🔹 What is Jason Collins doing now?
He works as a public speaker, activist, and NBA ambassador promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion.
🔹 What number did Jason Collins wear?
He wore #98 in honor of Matthew Shepard, a victim of a hate crime in 1998.
🔹 Who is Jason Collins’ twin brother?
Jarron Collins, also a former NBA player and current assistant coach in the NBA.
🔹 When did Jason Collins come out?
He came out as gay in April 2013, becoming the first active NBA player to do so.
🔹 Is Jason Collins married?
As of 2025, Jason Collins is not publicly married and keeps his personal relationships private.
