Former NBL Star Announces He’s Gay in Emotional Pride Rd Interview
Former NBL player AJ Ogilvy has publicly come out as gay in a heartfelt interview featuring Adelaide 36ers center Isaac Humphries. This candid discussion delved into their careers, personal journeys, and the significance of authenticity in Australian basketball.
AJ Ogilvy’s Journey
AJ Ogilvy, a three-time All-NBL First Team member, enjoyed a substantial professional career, playing 218 games for notable teams like the Sydney Kings and Illawarra Hawks. Reflecting on his experiences, Ogilvy expressed gratitude for the opportunity to travel the world while pursuing his passion for basketball.
During the interview, released ahead of Pride Round, he acknowledged that he didn’t live as authentically as he could during his career. “I felt lucky to have such a long career, but I wasn’t as open as I should have been,” he stated.
Relationship and Personal Life
- Ogilvy has been married for nearly 18 months.
- He met his husband while playing in Sydney.
Throughout his time in Wollongong, Ogilvy found it gradually easier to share aspects of his personal life. Notably, some teammates even attended his wedding, reflecting a level of awareness that was not always publicly expressed.
Isaac Humphries’ Impact
Isaac Humphries became the first openly gay male player in the NBL after coming out publicly in 2022. He shared that living openly significantly improved his life. “It was a massive relief to be honest and not hide anymore,” he explained.
Humphries cited mental health as a crucial factor in his coming out journey, stating that the struggle of concealing his identity was overwhelming. Ultimately, he found that being open about his sexuality helped him connect more authentically with his teammates.
A Significant Moment in NBL History
Humphries’ public revelation was a pivotal moment not just for him but also for the NBL. Ogilvy described it as a “huge” event that positively influenced the basketball community. “It was vital for someone of Humphries’ stature to step forward and say, ‘This is who I am,’” Ogilvy remarked.
Challenges and Representations
Ogilvy shared the pressures he felt to conceal his sexuality while pursuing a professional basketball career. He noted the distinct separation between his public and personal lives, and the lack of positive gay representation during his youth significantly impacted him.
Importance of Pride Round
As Pride Round enters its fourth year in the NBL, both Ogilvy and Humphries emphasized the importance of visibility and representation in sports. Humphries remarked on the positive reception of Pride Round, stating, “It’s always been very welcoming.”
- Pride Round fosters an inclusive environment for players and fans.
- It provides a platform for discussions about acceptance and representation.
Ogilvy echoed this sentiment, stating that Pride Round encourages open conversations and helps individuals feel represented, regardless of their background. “It’s important for everyone—players, fans, and viewers alike—to feel included,” he emphasized.
The commitment from NBL to promote Pride Round not only celebrates diversity but also inspires future generations of athletes to express their true selves on and off the court.
