Jason Collins, who became the first openly gay athlete in North America's four recognized major team sports when he played for the Brooklyn Nets last season, is retiring.

Jason Collins, who became the first openly gay athlete in North America's four recognized major team sports when he played for the Brooklyn Nets last season, is retiring.

Jason Collins, who became the first openly gay athlete in North America's four recognized major team sports when he played for the Brooklyn Nets last season, is retiring.

Jason Collins had spent years in the NBA as a reliable big man — not the most stand-out name on the roster, but he brought veteran leadership. However, as the 2012-13 season wound down, the 7'0 ...

Brooklyn Nets Jason Collins speaks during a news conference before an NBA basketball game against the Chicago Bulls at the Barclays Center, Monday, March 3, 2014, in New York.