Derrick Gordon, University Of Massachusetts Basketball Star, Announces He Is Gay

One of the key contributors to the recent success of the University of Massachusetts men’s basketball program, sophomore shooting guard Derrick Gordon remains an instrumental figure in the Minutemen’s plans for the future. While the 22-year-old continues to grow into a strong Division I talent, the Plainfield, New Jersey native recently disclosed something that is not easy for everyone to do, especially those highly involved in collegiate and professional sports. After shortly coming out to his family, friends, teammates and coaches earlier this month, Gordon – who helped guide UMass to the 2014 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament – publicly announced that he is gay, making him the first Division I male basketball player to come out.

“I just didn't want to hide anymore, in any way,” Gordon told ESPN in a recent interview. “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? I just had a lot of time to myself, thinking, and I didn't know what I was waiting for. Before, I usually just kept to myself because I didn't want to lie or be fake. But not anymore. I feel so good right now. It's like this huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders.”

Averaging over 9 points, 3 rebounds and 2 assists in 33 games with the Minutemen, Gordon served as a strong compliment to leading scorers Chaz Williams (15.6ppg) and Cady Lalanne (11.3), taking on a role as a capable scorer and defender. A product of St. Patrick High School in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Gordon transferred to UMass from Western Kentucky prior to the start of the 2012-2013 campaign. Serving as a consistent presence within the athletic program as well, Gordon – who started each one of the 33 games this season – has the full support of UMass athletic director John McCutcheon, who said recently that the university is proud to have the 22-year-old on campus.

“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,” McCutcheon said. “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.”