NBA Player Jason Collins to receive GLSEN Courage Award in NYC Monday night

NBA player Jason Collins will receive the "Courage Award" from the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network on Monday night at Manhattan's Gotham Hall.

Collins, 34,who finished the season with the Washington Wizards, came out as gay in the May 6 issue of Sports Illustrated, making him the first active pro athlete to declare his homosexuality while playing for a major U.S. sports team.

His revelation "has broken monumental barriers for and raised the hopes of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender student athletes in K-12 schools," according to a GLSEN statement.

NBA commissioner David Stern endorsed the GLSEN award, saying Collins "has demonstrated a strength and determination that is truly admirable in professional sports."

Collins' courage "is an even more powerful statement and has already inspired others in sports at all levels. We are proud of our partnership with GLSEN and are delighted that Jason is receiving their Courage Award," Stern said.

The awards, which are in their 10thyear, are held annually in New York and Los Angeles to showcase the work of corporations, individuals, students and educators who make a significant difference or serve as exemplary role models in the furtherance of diversity, inclusion and the safe schools movement.