Melbourne United supports and celebrates Isaac Humphries’ courageous decision

Today, Melbourne United’s Isaac Humphries decided to demonstrate tremendous courage to make an important announcement to his teammates.

“I have hidden something about myself my whole life, from everyone I love, and even myself sometimes. It is a truth about myself that I have wanted to deny for a long time, but now I feel comfortable in telling you all. That truth, is that I am gay.” Humphries said.

“I have been through extremely dark times during this journey, but I have been through so much growth, and I am now happy with who I am.”

“I figured out a lot about myself during this most recent off-season, and I have thought about this a lot. I knew if I were to join a team and start a season, I knew I would have to reveal who I am and not hide anymore.”

“I have finally come to a point where I know I can reveal myself as a gay man and still play professional sport.”

The announcement means that Humphries becomes the only openly gay male professional basketball player currently playing in a top tier league, anywhere in the world. He also makes history by becoming the first ever Australian male basketball player, and first player in the NBL to be openly gay.

“I believe it is definitely time to make a change and set an example to the next generation that they can be anything they want while still being true to themselves.” Humphries continued.

“I want to demonstrate that you can be a professional athlete, you can be anything you want, and still be gay.”

“By me being truthful with you, I hope you understand that this will now allow me to be truly myself, both in life and as a member of this team.”

Melbourne United’s Chief Executive Officer Nick Truelson expressed the pride felt throughout the entire club.

“Our whole organisation is just so proud of Isaac,” Truelson said.

“Today is an incredible step in Isaac’s journey, and we as a club are wholeheartedly supportive of him. Not only as a member of our club, but as a person. This is a momentous occasion for him personally, but also for male sport on a global scale.”

"Our purpose at Melbourne United is to use the power of basketball to enrich the lives of our community, and this includes a strong focus on inclusion and diversity. We are thrilled that Isaac has identified our club as a safe space in which he can be his true self."

“For the LGBTIQ+ community to finally have representation in professional male basketball is wonderful. It has been a long time coming, and we are so happy that our club can be at the forefront of being allies in this area.”

“We admire Isaac’s bravery and hope the leadership and courage he has displayed today can begin to inspire others to follow. We are excited for what is to come next in his journey.”

Melbourne United Head Coach Dean Vickerman also spoke of his admiration for Humphries, and the courage he displayed today.

“We love Isaac here at the club. For him to feel comfortable to be his true self here is great, and we couldn’t be more proud of him.”

“We can’t underestimate how difficult this must have been for Isaac, but I’m really excited by the fact that he can be completely open and honest with his teammates and now ultimately, the world. It’s huge.”

“Isaac has also made it clear to me and the rest of the team that while this is a massive occasion for him off the court, his focus remains on the court. We will continue to support Isaac however we can, while also pursuing another NBL championship with this group.”

Melbourne United will next face Isaac Humphries’ former club, the Adelaide 36ers, at 7:30pm Thursday November 17 at John Cain Arena. Tickets for the game are available here.