Kobe Bryant, Ricky Martin, Neil Patrick
Harris and Steve Nash were among the celebrities and athletes
tweeting support for Jason Collins' coming out on Monday.
Collins, a 34-year-old 12-year NBA
veteran and currently a free agent, came out gay in a cover story for
Sports Illustrated, making him the U.S.'s first openly gay
professional athlete.
(Related: NBA's
Jason Collins: First openly gay professional athlete.)
“Bravo, @JasonCollins34! Thanks for
stepping up,” actor Neil Patrick Harris messaged. “For standing
tall. And at 7 feet, that's saying a lot.”
Minnesota Viking punter Chris Kluwe
tweeted: “Big kudos to @JasonCollins34. Living proof that your
sexuality has nothing to do with your athletic ability.”
Former Baltimore Ravens linebacker
Brendon Ayanbadejo added: “By @JasonCollins34 opening doors &
doing it his way on his time he has helped shape a more accepting
America. Many many more follow #courage.”
Several NBA stars, including Kobe
Bryant, Steve Nash and Martell Webster, also applauded Collins.
“Proud of @JasonCollins34. Don't
suffocate who u r because of the ignorance of others #courage
#support,” messaged Bryant.
Nash wrote: “The time has come.
Maximum respect.”
“@JasonCollins34 you have made sports
what it should be and that's 'OPEN' proud of you for being you. That
jump shot is still weak lol,” added Webster.
Singers Ricky Martin and Lance Bass
also congratulated Collins.
“I don't know you personally
@JasonCollins but … CONGRATULATIONS buddy! You are a brave man!
I'm very happy for you!”
“Congrats @JasonCollins34!!” Bass
messaged. “Giant leap for sports – and the conversation
continues!”