Melbourne United centre Isaac Humphries has come out as the first openly gay player in a top-tier men’s basketball league.
Humphries shared the news to teammates on Wednesday morning, posting a video of the moment via his social media.
He also opened up the struggles he dealt with in coming to terms with his sexuality, revealing he even tried to take his own life several years ago.
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“A few years ago, I fell into a very dark place, a very lonely place,” Humphries told United teammates and other staffers.
“I couldn‘t be who I am, and I attempted to take my life. The main reason behind me becoming so low and being in that point is because I was very much struggling with my sexuality and coming to terms with the fact that I’m gay.
“I hated it about myself. I was disgusted at myself. I thought that I could not be that person within our environment, within a basketball environment. It wasn’t until I was in a community that’s full of pride and happiness and joy; it was a big wake-up call for me.
“But then came the big question mark of how do I be a basketball player, and how do I join a new team when I‘ve finally come to terms with this about myself and I don’t wanna hide who I am anymore.
“I decided that, if I’m gonna join a team, that I’m gonna come out publicly, and just make sure people know that you can live. And you don’t have to hide, just because you’re an athlete.”
The 24-year old joins A-League player Josh Cavallo as the only openly gay male athlete across the country’s major sporting codes.
Humphries is the second professional basketball player to come out as gay while playing in a top-tier league after former NBA centre Jason Collins did so in 2013.
United threw its support behind Humphries after the announcement including coach Dean Vickerman saying he was full of admiration of the player.
“We love Isaac here at the club. For him to feel comfortable to be his true self here is great, and we couldn’t be more proud of him,” Vickerman said.
“We can’t underestimate how difficult this must have been for Isaac, but I’m really excited by the fact that he can be completely open and honest with his teammates and now ultimately, the world. It’s huge.
“Isaac has also made it clear to me and the rest of the team that while this is a massive occasion for him off the court, his focus remains on the court. We will continue to support Isaac however we can, while also pursuing another NBL championship with this group.”
Humphries has averaged 12 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game for United this season.
He played two years at college at Kentucky and has also had stints in the NBA, NBA-League and Europe across his professional basketball career.
