12-year NBA center, Jason Collins, is the first openly gay player in American sports to come out while still playing.

Collins made the announcement in the May 6 Sports Illustrated.

"I'm a 34-year-old N.B.A. center. I'm black and I'm gay." The article was posted to the website Monday morning.

This is a monumental moment in professional American team sports. Collins is the first openly gay player in the NBA, NFL, NHL or MLB to still pursue his sport. Other homosexual athletes have chosen to wait until after their careers to come out.

The timing of the announcement is interesting, given that Collins becomes a free agent after the season. Is he testing NBA teams to see if his sexuality could influence their decision to sign him?

"I've reached that enviable state in life in which I can do pretty much what I want. And what I want is to continue to play basketball. I still love the game, and I still have something to offer. My coaches and teammates recognize that. At the same time, I want to be genuine and authentic and truthful," Collins added in the Sports Illustrated article.

Since Collins' announcement many NBA stars have praised him for his courage and authenticity.

Kobe Bryan showed support on Twitter.

"Proud of @jasoncollins34. Don't suffocate who u r because of the ignorance of others."

Knowing that this type of acceptance and tolerance is hotbed issue in professional sports, NBA commissioner David Stern showed his support for the Collins' announcement.

"Jason has been a widely respected player and teammate throughout his career," Stern said, "and we are proud he has assumed the leadership mantle on this very important issue."