Collins (right) signing his contract as friend and new coach Jason Kidd watches on Basketballer Jason Collins is about to make history as the first openly-gay player to suit up in any of the four major US sports leagues. The Brooklyn Nets have signed him to a 10-day contract ahead of today’s game against the Lakers. "The decision to sign Jason was a basketball decision," GM Billy King said in a statement. "We needed to increase our depth inside, and with his experience and size, we felt he was the right choice for a 10-day contract." Collins is a former Net and coach Jason Kidd is a friend and former teammate. The 35-year-old veteran has been an unsigned free agent since last April when he played for the Washington Wizards. He’s since come out, saying “I wish I wasn't the kid in the classroom raising his hand and saying, ‘I'm different,’” and “If I had my way, someone else would have already done this. Nobody has, which is why I'm raising my hand.” When Collins' deal expires next week, the Nets can offer him another 10-day contract before they have to decide whether to cut ties or keep him for the season.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Monday, 24th February 2014 - 11:16am