Jason Collins already made history when he signed a 10-day contract with the Brooklyn Nets last month, becoming the first openly gay player in one of America’s four major sports. Now, it appears that good fortune is continuing to follow Collins because it’s been reported that he will sign another 10-day contract with the Nets.
According to ESPN, Collins’ original 10-day contract will expire on Tuesday, but sources confirmed yesterday that he’ll stay in Brooklyn to sign yet another 10-day contract with the team.
And the good news doesn’t end there. Sources say that the Nets will likely sign Collins for the rest of the season after this second contract expires.
During the Nets game with the Chicago Bulls on Monday night, in which the Nets scored a 96-80 victory, Collins received a standing ovation from the crowd as he entered the game with 2:41 left.
“It was cool,” Collins said of the support. “It was a lot of fun going into the game, but the most important thing was that we got the win.”
During a pregame news conference held Monday, Collins discussed comparisons between his landmark signing and the groundbreaking success of black baseball legend Jackie Robinson.
“I’m just trying to be Jason Collins,” he said. “What Jackie Robinson did for the sport of baseball and our society [is] tremendous. But I am just trying to be Jason Collins.”
In Collins’ eyes, he doesn’t have time yet to think about the history he’s making every time he hits the court. But he will when he decides to take his jersey off for good.
“When I officially retire, I will know. As of right now, I’m playing games and next up is Memphis,” said Collins.
We congratulate Collins on nabbing another contract and we hope his success is opening doors for other LGBT players to walk through with greater ease. – nicholas robinson
