The first major American sports athlete to come out as gay during his playing career held a lecture at Fort Hays State University yesterday. Retired NBA veteran Jason Collins was on hand to talk about overcoming adversity and living an authentic life. 

Collins spoke at 7:30 p.m. at the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center on campus.  Admission was free and open to the public.

His appearance was sponsored by the Center for Student Involvement, the Department of Residential Life, the Gay-Straight Alliance and the University Activities Board.  There is no telling the impact that Collins has made on people's lives since his groundbreaking announcement in 2013.

He went on to receive public acclaim for coming out and was one of Time Magazine's "100 Most Influential People in the World" in 2014.  Upon being signed by the Brooklyn Nets following his announcement, his #98 jersey became the top seller at the NBA's online store. 

Following that season, Collins retired after 13 seasons in the NBA.  He is currently on the President's Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition.  

During his career, Collins was mostly a reserve center and he played for six different franchises.  Prior to being a first round pick in 2001, he was a first-team All-Pac 10 selection at Stanford.

To inquire about Jason Collins' speaking fee and appearance cost, contact the agents at Athlete Speakers by calling us at 800-916-6008 or by Starting Your Booking Request Now.

Jason Collins Interviewed by Justin Root: