UMass basketball’s Derrick Gordon has made history by becoming the first D-1 college player to come out as gay.
Gordon sat down with ESPN to tell the world his story.
I just didn't want to hide anymore, in any way. 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 the starting guard for the UMass Minutemen and started every game for them this season. Gordon is the first active D-1 basketball player to come out as gay and posted a picture on his Instagram with an inspiring message.
This is the happiest I have ever been in my 22 Years of living...No more HIDING!!!...Just want to live life happy and play the sport that I love...Really would love to thank my family, friends, coaches, and teammates for supporting me....I would also like to thank my support team Wade Davis, Jason Collins, Brian Sims, Micah Porter, Anthony Nicodemo, Patrick Burke,Billy Bean, Gerald McCullough, Kirk Walker...You guys are AWESOME!!! Ready to get back in the gym with my teammates and get on the GRIND and get ready for next season!!!! #BETRUE #BEYOURSELF #HONEYBADGER
It’s a great day for the gay community as more and more athletes come out with open arms. For all the backlash the media creates about how gay individuals will be received, the sports world has been very accepting of the brave people that make the decision to live freely. Perhaps as more athletes come out, it will become less newsworthy when a player reveals his lifestyle.
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