Why I’m a Wizards’ fan — & No, This Isn’t a Harry Potter Post

First the Washington Wizards drafted my all-time favorite Wildcat, John Wall. (See this article I wrote abut him.)

And now, one of Wall’s teammates  — Jason Collins — bravely made history today by becoming the first active professional athlete to come out as a gay America.

Bravo Jason!  I am confident his courage will literally save the lives of dozens of American teenagers (particularly African-Americans) who live in fear of bullying about their sexuality. 

Bravo!

Here’s an excerpt from Collins’ statement, in Sports Illustrated:

I’m a 34-year-old NBA center. I’m black. And I’m gay.

I didn’t set out to be the first openly gay athlete playing in a major American team sport. But since I am, I’m happy to start the conversation. 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.

My journey of self-discovery and self-acknowledgement began in my hometown of Los Angeles and has taken me through two state high school championships, the NCAA Final Four and the Elite Eight, and nine playoffs in 12 NBA seasons.

I’ve played for six pro teams and have appeared in two NBA Finals. Ever heard of a parlor game called Three Degrees of Jason Collins? If you’re in the league, and I haven’t been your teammate, I surely have been one of your teammates’ teammates. Or one of your teammates’ teammates’ teammates.

Now I’m a free agent, literally and figuratively. I’ve reached that enviable state in life in which I can do pretty much what I want. And what I want is to continue to play basketball. I still love the game, and I still have something to offer. My coaches and teammates recognize that. At the same time, I want to be genuine and authentic and truthful.

Click here to read his full statement.