19
Nov
CODE Sports
Isaac Humphries' life-changing mission to help others
Isaac Humphries of the 36ers looks on during the match between Panathinaikos BC and Adelaide 36ers at Qudos Bank Arena on September 21, 2025 in Sydney, Australia. Photo: Jeremy Ng/Getty Images
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Humphries reveals how his life has changed since coming out as the NBL’s first openly-gay player
- Adelaide 36ers big man Isaac Humphries is the first openly-gay NBL player
- Humphries came out while playing for Melbourne United in 2022
- He is currently averaging 14.6 points and 5.8 rebounds in NBL26
A day rarely passes when Isaac Humphries doesn’t receive a message from someone weighing up life because they’re struggling with their sexuality, writes Matt Logue and Michael Randall from CODE Sports Basketball.
Since coming out as Australia’s first openly gay male basketballer three years ago, Humphries has become a safe haven for thousands of people battling to come to terms with their identity.
Not all the interactions have been positive and he has copped some ‘hostile’ abuse, but for the large part he has become an inspiration for many.
It’s a responsibility the Adelaide 36ers big man takes significant pride in, knowing he has the platform to empower people to live as their true selves.
“I get anything from you’ve saved my life and I came out last night to my mum to I’m going to take my life tonight and what do I do?,” Humphries said.
“It’s a daily thing for me to receive messages or for someone to approach me in person.
“Last week someone grabbed me at an event and literally came out to me in the corner of a room and said he has never told anyone that.
“It is a pretty unreal feeling when you think something I say to someone can literally change their life, save their life.
“It is incredibly interesting to wrap my head around sometimes. It has been a bit to get used to, but I’m pretty used to it now and I’m very proud to be that sort of person for people.”
Humphries couldn’t be happier to help others battling with their sexuality.
NBL Pride Round is from January 21 to February 1 next year.
For the full story where Humphries talks about overcoming fear, being true to himself, giving back to his community and enjoying life on and off the court, visit CODE Sports Basketball here.
NEED TO TALK TO SOMEONE?
Lifeline (24-hour crisis line): 131 114
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue.org.au
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 or kidshelpline.com.au
Headspace: 1800 650 890 or headspace.org.au
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