Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Following Collins' Death, Barkley Blames NBA Climate

5/16/2026

22 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Charles Barkley said on “Inside the NBA” that the social climate forces gay athletes to stay closeted.
He added that a player coming out today would become a story because of lingering animosity toward the gay community.
The remarks came after Jason Collins, NBA’s first player to come out, died on May 12 at 47 from Stage 4 glioblastoma, having played 13 seasons with teams including the Atlanta Hawks and Washington Wizards.

1 of 1

Story summary

Charles Barkley said on “Inside the NBA” that the social climate forces gay athletes to stay closeted.
He added that a player coming out today would become a story because of lingering animosity toward the gay community.
The remarks came after Jason Collins, NBA’s first player to come out, died on May 12 at 47 from Stage 4 glioblastoma, having played 13 seasons with teams including the Atlanta Hawks and Washington Wizards.