NEW YORK -- Jason Collins will posthumously be honored with the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage for his impact on LGBTQ+ visibility in pro sports at The ESPYS in July.
Collins was the NBA's first openly gay player who went on to become a pioneer for inclusion and an ambassador for the league. The 13-year center died May 12 of a brain tumor at age 47.
Jason Collins -- the NBA's first openly gay player, died in May of a brain tumor. He will receive the ESPYS Arthur Ashe Award, which will be accepted by his twin brother Jarron Collins. Monica Schipper/Getty Images Before his death, Collins publicly shared his cancer journey and spoke openly about his prognosis in hopes of advancing understanding and helping others facing similar diagnoses.
The Ashe award is given to a person who has made a difference beyond the field of play by fighting for what they believe in. It will be accepted by Collins' twin brother, Jarron.