Charles Barkley Slams Homophobia in Sports: 'You’re Just Stupid' If You Deny Gay Athletes Exist

NBA icon Jason Collins passed away on Tuesday at his home. He was 47 years old. Collins, who became the first openly gay active player in a major U.S. sport when he came out in 2013, died from stage-4 glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer.

Inside the NBA paid tribute to Collins during its Wednesday night broadcast. While Kenny Smith reflected on Collins’ legacy with warmth, Charles Barkley delivered a powerful statement about the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in sports.

"Kenny, in fairness now, if another guy did it, it would still be a big deal, because we live in a homophobic society. That’s unfortunate. First off, anybody who thinks we don’t have a bunch of gay players in all sports, they’re just stupid. There is so much animosity towards the gay community, and that’s what’s really unfortunate. If anybody thinks him, and I know a couple of soccer players that came out — if you don’t think there’s more gay players in the NFL, Major League Baseball, and the NBA — you’re just stupid."

Collins carved out a 13-year NBA career despite not posting elite traditional statistics. Drafted No. 18 overall in the 2001 NBA Draft, he played for six teams, with his most productive years coming as a starting center for the New Jersey Nets. That team, featuring stars like Jason Kidd, Vince Carter, and Richard Jefferson, was one of the most dynamic in the league during its peak.

Known for his basketball IQ and defensive prowess, Collins embraced a role player mentality. His presence elevated every locker room he joined, making him a valued teammate and a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ athletes.

Barkley also addressed the homophobia he has observed within the Black community, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance. "Do you," Barkley said, "gay people have the right to do what they want to do. Its nobody else’s business at all. For him to come out, it was great. […] I was proud of him for coming out, and when I got that news yesterday it just sucked."

Collins’ courage in coming out during the twilight of his career left a lasting impact. His openness helped pave the way for greater visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ athletes in professional sports.