Par Guillaume Kagni | Journaliste sportif
Kevin Garnett is not only one of the best players in the history of the league, he’s also one of the most entertaining. KG always had the word to make people laugh or to provoke, but also to comfort. The proof is in this crazy anecdote about Jason Collins, the first openly gay player in the NBA.
For many years now, under the impetus of a player like LeBron James, the NBA has not hesitated to get involved politically and defend progressive values. However, there is one fight that is not often mentioned: that for the rights of the LGBT+ community in the United States. It has to be said that it is not very well represented in the league.
More than 10 years after coming out, Jason Collins is still the only openly gay player to have set foot on an NBA floor. His testimony, which could have paved the way for others, which could have inspired a new generation to live freely, didn’t necessarily have the desired effect. In fact, how was her announcement taken in the locker room?
Kevin Garnett’s crazy proposal to Jason Collins
Marquis Teague was in Brooklyn at the same time as Collins, so he has some anecdotes to tell on the subject. On his brother Jeff’s podcast, he revealed a crazy evening during which the pivot’s sexual orientation was brought up. When Kevin Garnett speaks out and shows tolerance, everyone is compelled to follow and support.
Kevin Garnett is the best teammate I’ve had in my career, but he was out of his mind. All the crazy things he could say on the court, he could also say in real life. Once, we were on a plane after a trip to China. We all wanted to have a big party and bring lots of girls back with us. At the time, the whole team was either single or about to get divorced.
Kevin Garnett turned to Jason Collins and said, “Don’t worry, buddy, we’ll take care of you too. We’ll bring you guys back!”. I was with Andray Blatche, and we were crying with laughter after that.
Kevin Garnett never forgot anyone at parties, especially Jason Collins.
As the Nets looked to decompress from their trip to China in charming company, the Big Ticket thought of his gay teammate. There’s no saying whether the initiative went through, but the mere fact of proposing is a sign of openness. NBA teams are like families, and Kevin Garnett wanted everyone to be comfortable in Brooklyn.