Jarron Collins Reflects on Late Twin Brother Jason’s Posthumous ESPYs Honor: 'Very Humbled'
The sports world gathered to celebrate athletic excellence and courage at the 2026 ESPY Awards, where the late NBA pioneer Jason Collins was posthumously honored for his trailblazing contributions to professional sports. Accepting the prestigious accolade on his behalf was his twin brother and fellow NBA veteran, Jarron Collins. Speaking with TMZ Sports following the emotional ceremony, Jarron expressed profound gratitude for the tribute, describing the experience of honoring his brother on such a prominent stage as a deeply moving and humbling moment for the entire Collins family.
Jason Collins, who passed away earlier this year after a battle with an aggressive illness, etched his name into sports history in 2013. By publicly coming out as gay in a landmark Sports Illustrated cover story, he became the first active male athlete in any of the four major North American professional sports leagues to do so. His announcement was a watershed moment that challenged long-standing stereotypes in professional locker rooms and paved the way for future LGBTQ+ athletes to live authentically. Over his 13-year NBA career, Collins was respected not only as a formidable defensive center but also as a consummate teammate and a champion for social progress.
"To be there and hear the applause, and to see how much Jason’s life and legacy still resonate with people, it was incredibly powerful," Jarron told TMZ Sports. He emphasized that the ESPYs tribute was not just a recognition of Jason's athletic career, but a celebration of his bravery off the court. Jarron noted that his brother’s mission was always to foster inclusivity and ensure that younger generations of athletes felt safe being themselves. "Our family is very humbled by this honor," Jarron added. "Jason didn't set out to be a hero; he just wanted to tell his truth. Seeing that truth honored tonight shows how far we’ve come."
The posthumous tribute at the ESPYs underscored the lasting ripple effect of Collins’ advocacy. In the years following his retirement from professional basketball in 2014, he remained an active ambassador for sports equality and a mentor to countless individuals. As the sports community continues to mourn his passing, tributes like the one presented at the 2026 ESPYs serve as a permanent reminder of his enduring impact on and off the hardwood.