Trailblazing gay basketball star Jason Collins and his partner are battling coronavirus
Former NBA player Jason Collins and producer Brunson Green. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images for Sundance Film Festival)
Former NBA star and LGBT+ activist Jason Collins has revealed that he and his partner have both tested positive for coronavirus.
The former Brooklyn Nets player, who made history in 2013 when he came out as gay, revealed on social media that he and partner Brunson Green have been infected.
Jason Collins believes he got coronavirus at a basketball Pride match.
In the post on Tuesday, he wrote: “I tested positive for COVID19. I believe I got it while on a trip to NYC at the beginning of the month for the Brooklyn Nets Pride night game.
“I had my first symptoms on March 11. Terrible headache. A few days later I had a fever and then the cough.
“On Saturday I went to the ER and got tested and spoke with some docs about the tightness in my chest.
“I’m home now resting but still experiencing some tightness and might go back to the hospital later today. On Saturday my lungs were clear, which obviously is good.”
Retired NBA player Jason Collins (Photo by Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images)
He added: “Please stay safe and continue to social distance. Thank you to every single health care worker out there that are our true heroes on the frontline.
“Please, let’s try to flatten the curve and not overwhelm our health care system.”
The message attracted a flood of support and well wishes.
Tennis legend Billie Jean King wrote: “Thinking of you and praying for a speedy recovery!”
Out comic Dana Goldberg wrote: “Get better, Jason! Thank you for informing the public!”
Democratic activist Douglas Emhoff, the husband of former presidential hopeful Kamala Harris, wrote: “Jason, Kamala and I sending our love to you and the entire family. Stay strong friend.”
Brooklyn Nets have suffered coronavirus outbreak.
The Brooklyn Nets previously said that four players had tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.
In a statement, the team said:”Of the four, one player is exhibiting symptoms while three are asymptomatic. All four players are presently isolated and under the care of team physicians.
“The organisation is currently notifying anyone who has had known contact with the players, including recent opponents, and is working closely with state and local health authorities on reporting.
“All players and members of the Nets travel party are being asked to remain isolated, closely monitor their health and maintain constant communication with team medical staff.
“The health of our players and staff is of the highest priority to the organisation and the team is doing everything within its power to ensure that those affected receive the best care possible.
“As always, we appreciate the support of our fans, partners and surrounding community, and we wish all those who are battling this virus a speedy recovery.”
