Charlotte Bobcats’ Michael Kidd-Gilchrist releases statement on Derrick Gordon

On Wednesday, the big story of the day in the world of sports revolved around Massachusetts Minutemen guard Derrick Gordon, who became the first openly gay athlete in college basketball.

Gordon recently came out to his coaches, friends and teammates and made his announcement to the rest of the world on Wednesday.

Charlotte Bobcats’ forward Michael Kidd-Gilchrist attended high school with Gordon and considers him to be both an excellent teammate and a close friend.

Kidd Gilchrist officially released a statement through the Bobcats via Rick Bonnell of The Charlotte Observer.

“Derrick was a great teammate and is an even better friend. I admire his courage and willingness to share his story. Just as we supported each other on the court, I am proud to support him now. He is a basketball player, a teammate and a friend, and that’s all that matters.”

Kidd-Gilchrist and Gordon played for St. Patrick High School Academy in Elizabeth, New Jersey. While at St. Patrick, the two also played with former Duke Blue Devils and current Cleveland Cavaliers’ star point guard Kyrie Irving.