Isaac Humphries comes out as gay: NBL community rally around Melbourne United star

Melbourne United’s Mason Peatling is longing for the day when an NBL player who announces he is gay doesn’t make global headlines.

But for now, the forward will simply continue to support team-mate Isaac Humphries, who was in the international spotlight when he came out this week.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Isaac Humphries comes out as gay in an emotional speech to his teammates.

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Humphries’ emotional announcement drew a positive response from across the sporting world before he returned to the pitch on Thursday night as United suffered a 91-86 home loss to the Adelaide 36ers.

“He did a really brave thing … but we’re going to hug him and hopefully one day nobody will really[care about a player’s sexuality],” Peatling told reporters after the game.

“Nothing will change for me. We treat Isaac the same way and he’s part of our club.

“We are excited to see what will come of it.”

Humphries finished the game with eight points, six rebounds, four assists and two blocks against Adelaide, showing off his skills.

But he could have done more damage, making only four shots out of 10 from the field and missing his two free throws.

The 24-year-old became the only openly gay player in one of men’s top basketball leagues when he made his announcement on Wednesday via a video posted to social media.

In the clip, Humphries revealed his true identity to his teammates, telling them that he previously attempted suicide while dealing with his sexuality.

The video was viewed more than five million times in the first 24 hours of its release.

“It’s been an emotional week, but a great week,” said Melbourne coach Dean Vickerman.

“We felt that our culture as a club grew through Isaac and what he went through and the courage he had through it in diversity and acceptance for everyone.”

Humphries was also praised by the Adelaide camp, with whom he spent two seasons before joining Melbourne this year.

“We’re proud of him and happy that he took charge of his life,” said Sixers coach CJ Bruton.

“As a coach, I can’t say enough about Isaac. I love him and I’m glad he’s happy.”

Adelaide import Robert Franks tipped off Humphries’ bravery in making a big impact around the world.

“This is going to be big,” Franks said.

“For[Humphries]to step up and say that’s going to give a lot more people the confidence to come out and get that monkey off their back.”

Sydney Kings guard Angus Glover, who has known Humphries since they were both 10, was one of many rival players to signal their support for Melbourne United center this week.

“Probably pretty much everyone in the league[reached out to Humphries],” Glover told AAP.

“Personally, I’m very happy for him that he overcame his demons and was able to come out.

“I cannot praise Isaac enough as a person. He’s such a good guy.”

If you need help during a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Visit beyondblue for more information on depression 1300224636 or talk to your family doctor, a local healthcare professional or someone you trust.

– AAP