Here’s a little positivity!
Derrick Gordon, a sophomore starter for the University of Massachusetts men’s basketball team, said Wednesday that he is gay — an announcement that makes the brave college basketball star the first openly gay player in Division I men’s college basketball.
The 22-year-old told ESPN he came out to his family, coaches and teammates in the beginning of April. It was also then that he decided to come forward publicly.
“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 cites his decision to come forward on Jason Collins’ 10-day contract with the Brooklyn Nets in February. Collins publicly acknowledged his sexuality last April, becoming the first openly gay player in NBA history.
“That was so important to me, knowing that sexuality didn’t matter, that the NBA was OK with it,” Gordon said.
The UMass athletic department stands with Gordon in his decision to publicly acknowledge his sexuality, releasing this statement in a show of support.
“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.”
GlobalGrind stands beside Gordon in his brave decision to publicly come forward. Congratulations and the best of luck to him.
SOURCE: ESPN | PHOTO CREDIT: Getty
