The NBA’s first out player, Jason Collins received praise from influential people Monday after announcing himself as the first ever openly gay male athlete actively playing in a professional U.S. sports league.

In an exclusive article he wrote for Sports Illustrated, Collins said, "I didn't set out to be the first openly gay athlete playing in a major American team sport. But since I am, I'm happy to start the conversation.”

Jason Collins, wrote, "I wish I wasn't the kid in the classroom raising his hand and saying, 'I'm different.' If I had my way, someone else would have already done this. Nobody has, which is why I'm raising my hand."

Collins is a 34-year-old free agent who has played with both the Boston Celtics and the Washington Wizards. He appears on the cover of Sports Illustrated magazine’s May 6 issue with a headline that reads “The Gay Athlete.”

The news of him coming out prompted numerous high-profile personalities, including fellow NBA players, to come forward supporting him. The Huffington Post reported that President Barack Obama called the NBA player Monday to “express his support” and tell him “he was impressed by his courage.” First Lady Michelle Obama took to Twitter to expressed her support to Collins, saying, “So proud of you, Jason Collins! This is a huge step forward for our country. We’ve got your back! –mo”

Jason’s twin brother, Jarron Collins, tweeting, “very proud of you” including a link to Jason’s article. Kobe Bryant tweeted, “Proud of @jasoncollins34. Don't suffocate who u r because of the ignorance of others #courage #support #mambaarmystandup #BYOU.” Steve Nash, Jason Kidd, Dwyane Wade, Mark Madsen and Garrett Temple all sent in their support to Jason Collins on Twitter.

NBA Commissioner David Stern also commended Collins for his announcement. Stern said in a statement on Twitter:

"As Adam Silver and I said to Jason, we have known the Collins family since Jason and Jarron joined the NBA in 2001 and they have been exemplary members of the NBA family. Jason has been a widely respected player and teammate throughout his career and we are proud he has assumed the leadership mantle on this very important issue."

Other athletes, celebrities, politicians and high-profile gay rights advocates who joined in their praise for Jason includes Bill Clinton, Chelsea Clinton, Russell Simmons and Michael Strahan.

Dwayne Johnson tweeted, “Being real and authentic is very powerful. Well done Jason Collins for having the courage to take a monumental step forward. #LiveReal.”