Jason Collins Quotes

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Jason Collins

Profession : Basketball Player

Birth : December 2, 1978

The fact is, people in some communities have been conditioned to instantly feel safe when they see a police car. Others see one and instantly feel anxiety.

Jason Collins

For many young people growing up in minority communities, there is a sense that their lives are disposable. As athletes, we have a platform to let those kids know that their lives are important. That their lives matter to us.

Jason Collins

When I think about March Madness '98, the first thing that comes to mind is Mark 'Mad Dog' Madsen's unorthodox dance moves.

Jason Collins

It's always a terrible feeling knowing that you're about to go home from the NCAA Tournament.

Jason Collins

I know some people will roll their eyes at this, but it's not like you can totally put academics on pause during March Madness (well, maybe at some schools). At Stanford, you had to handle your business.

Jason Collins

Let me tell you about 'Mad Dog' Madsen. He was like the Soccer Dad of the Stanford Men's Basketball Team.

Jason Collins

That's how I conduct myself - just being professional.

Jason Collins

I am a fan of the Colts and Andrew Luck.

Jason Collins

I've never sought the spotlight. Though I'm coming out to the world, I intend to guard my privacy.

Jason Collins

I've been booed before. There have been times when I've wanted to boo myself. But a lot of ill feelings can be cured by winning.

Jason Collins

I'll lead by example and show that gay players are no different from straight ones.

Jason Collins

My dream was to play in the NBA and live my authentic life as a proud gay man at the same time. I was able to accomplish both of those goals because of the people who have supported me throughout my life.

Jason Collins

You know, I mentor a few younger athletes.

Jason Collins

I hope that every player makes a decision that leads to their own happiness, whatever happiness that is in life.

Jason Collins

I am really good at playing it straight.

Jason Collins

From my teammates, I'm expecting support because that's what I would do for my teammates.

Jason Collins

When you keep telling yourself a lie, at some point you buy your own cover story, like a CIA spy or something.

Jason Collins

When I first came back and I was playing with the Nets, yes, there was a lot of media attention. But after about two weeks, all those stories about being the first gay athlete went away and it became about, 'Wait, how are the Brooklyn Nets doing?' The same goes for Robbie Roberts, who won an MLS Cup.

Jason Collins

I've met many people who have come up to me and told me how my story has impacted them.

Jason Collins

As professional athletes, we're used to inspiring the next generation, people who are younger than us.

Jason Collins