Each time as the news value wears off, the gay community earns another victory.
ESPN reported Wednesday that University of Massachusetts guard Derrick Gordon announced he was gay, making him the first openly gay Division I men's college basketball player.
He shared his story with ESPN and Outsports.
According to ESPN, Gordon, who started as a sophomore during the 2013-14 season for the Minutemen, came out to his family, coaches and teammates at the beginning of the month.
"I just didn't want to hide anymore, in any way," Gordon told ESPN. "I didn't want to have to lie or sneak. I've been waiting and watching for the last few months, wondering when a Division I player would come out, and finally I just said, 'Why not me?' "
Gordon is a native of Plainfield, N.J., and said he was inspired by the saga of NBA player Jason Collins, who revealed he was gay in April of 2013 and then was able to sign a 10-day contract with the Brooklyn Nets in February. "That was so important to me, knowing that sexuality didn't matter, that the NBA was OK with it," Gordon said. Collins, whose own experience made national news for several days, tweeted his support for Gordon on Wednesday.
I'm so proud of @flash2gordon. Another brave young man who is going to make it easier for so many others to live an authentic life. #courage — Jason Collins (@jasoncollins34) April 9, 2014
According to ESPN, a number of people within the UMass athletic administration helped Gordon as he prepared to come out to his teammates.
"UMass is proud to have Derrick Gordon as a member of our athletic family and to honor his courage and openness as a gay student-athlete," athletic director John McCutcheon said in a written statement. "UMass is committed to creating a welcoming climate where every student-athlete, coach and staff member can be true to themselves as they pursue their athletic, academic and professional goals."
Gordon started all 33 games for UMass in 2013-14, averaging 9.4 points and 3.5 rebounds per game. The Minutemen reached the NCAA Tournament and compiled a 24-9 record.
While Gordon's announcement is signiificant, total victory for gay community will be achieved when such announcements are no longer news because they have been accepted as part of the culture.
What do you think needs to happen for athletes' coming out no longer is a news story? Comment below or tell us @SportsWN.
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