Basketball - Jason Collins through the years (Photos) + Support pours in from the sporting world

                             

The 12-year NBA veteran became the first active player in a major men's North American team sport to announce his homosexuality. Read the story HERE.  After the shocking revelation Jason Collins has  received an outpouring of support and admiration from the sporting world and many other influential voices.

KOBE BRYANT, NBA's LOS ANGELES LAKERS "
Proud of @jasoncollins34. Don't suffocate who u r because of the ignorance of others."

Jason Collins and his twin brother, Jarron, pose in a casual portrait while at Stanford in 2001.

TIM DUNCAN, NBA's SAN ANTONIO SPURS
"Really hope people will RESPECT Jason Collins for his decision to come out. Just glad he can now relax and not be afraid to be who he is."

St. Joseph's Marvin O'Connor (11) faces the twin wall of Stanford's Jason and Jarron Collins during the second round of the 2001 NCAA Tournament. The Collins twins were both selected in the 2001 NBA Draft.

                                 
Jason Collins rises for a shot during a 2003 game. Collins was a key piece of the Nets' frontcourt for seven seasons.

DWYANE WADE, NBA's MIAMI HEAT
"Jason Collins showed a lot of courage today and I respect him for taking a stand and choosing to live in his truth."

The Nets' Jason Collins battles for a rebound against the New York Knicks in a 2004 playoff game.                   

MARTINA NAVRATILOVA, FORMER TENNIS GREAT
"Hey Jason Collins-you are now an activist!!! And trust me, you will sleep a lot better now- freedom is a sweet feeling indeed!"

The Nets' Jason Collins boxes out the Heat's Shaquille O'Neal during a 2005 playoff game. Collins frequently guarded Shaq over the course of his career. In his SI story, Collins said, "Note to Shaq: My flopping has nothing to do with being gay."

JAY CARNEY, WHITE HOUSE SPOKESMAN
"I can certainly tell you that here at the White House we view that as another example of the progress that has been made and the evolution that has been taking place in this country, and commend him for his courage, and support him in his - in this effort and hope that his fans and his team support him going forward."

Jason Collins, seen here playing with Memphis, is defended by the Clippers' Al Thornton and Chris Kaman during a 2008 game in Los Angeles.

BILL CLINTON, FORMER US PRESIDENT
"Jason's announcement today is an important moment for professional sports and in the history of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) community."

Jason Collins, seen here with the Minnesota Timberwolves, shoots against the Magic's Dwight Howard during a 2008 game.

DAVID STERN, NBA COMMISSIONER
"Jason has been a widely respected player and team mate throughout his career and we are proud he has assumed the leadership mantle on this very important issue."

Jason Collins, playing with the Hawks, reacts during a game against the Magic in 2010

NICK SWISHER, MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL'S CLEVELAND INDIANS
"I will always support people for being who they are. Happy for @jasoncollins34 that he can lead an
honest life"

The Hawks' Jason Collins and Al Horford battle for a rebound against Brandon Bass of the Magic during Game 6 of the Eastern Conference first round in 2011.

EVA LONGORIA, ACTRESS
"So proud of Jason Collins for being an example of bravery and courage. I applaud you!!!"

MAGIC JOHNSON, PRO BASKETBALL HALL OF FAMER
"Jason Collins has announced that he is gay. I know Jason and his family well and I support him 100 percent."

Jason Collins was traded from the Celtics to the Wizards in February 2013.

WASHINGTON WIZARDS TEAM
"We are extremely proud of Jason and support his decision to live his life proudly and openly."

Jason Collins, playing with the Celtics, brings down a rebound against the Bobcats' Brendan Haywood in 2013.

BOSTON CELTICS COACH DOC RIVERS
"I am extremely happy and proud of Jason Collins. He's a pro's pro. He is the consummate professional and he is one of my favorite 'team' players I have ever coached."

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

CHRIS KLUWE, NFL's MINNESOTA VIKINGS
"Big kudos to @JasonCollins34. Living proof that your sexuality has nothing to do with your athletic ability."

"I go against the gay stereotype," Jason Collins said, "which is why I think a lot of players will be shocked: 
That guy is gay?"

"I'm glad I can stop hiding and refocus on my 13th NBA season," Jason Collins said. "I've been running through the Santa Monica Mountains in a 30-pound vest with Shadow, the German shepherd I got from Mike Miller."

FIRST LADY, MICHELLE OBAMA
"So proud of you, Jason Collins! This is a huge step forward for our country. We've got your back!

                                

"I've been asked how other players will respond to my announcement," Jason Collins said. "The simple answer is, I have no idea. I'm a pragmatist. I hope for the best, but plans for the worst

OKUSAMI ITUNU, SPORTUNES

" The greatest battle you can fight in life is the battle to be yourself, you have won that battle Jason in the process winning the heart of 150 million Nigerians."