The NBA Has Its First Openly Gay Star

Jason Collins rocked the world when he announced he was gay, but received the support he deserved to get. The veteran player would make a useful asset to many teams and it seems the New Jersey Nets agree as they have signed him. The contract is believed to be a 10-day one, but this would make him the first openly gay athlete in the NBA, showing how far basketball and sport in general have come.

It's believed he will meet the Nets later today, sign his deal and get the next chapter of his career under way instantly. Collins, who come out last year, has attracted interest for a while, but several teams were pursuing a few options, and with the trade deadline over and done with free agents become the only option to improve a team, making Collins an attractive proposition.

The Nets had started the season inconsistently, but they have had a great 2014 and appear a certainty for a playoff place. If Collins impresses it's likely his deal would be extended, and he could get a playoff stint to add to his already impressive resume. The Nets have an all round quality team, and Collins should increase their depth and bench options.

With this deal taking place, it's believed that more players may feel the pressure has been reduced and they can come out, too. The bold move Collins made to come out has been a huge help to the sport, and he will forever be remembered for his playing days and his off the court heroics. Could he also be remembered as a contributor to the Nets winning an NBA title?