Jallen Messersmith Gay Confession: Benedictine College Basketball Player

Meet Benedictine College men’s basketball player, Jallen Messersmith. The 6’7″ junior forward of Benedictine College in Atchison, Kan., just came out as gay in a statement to the Associated Press on Wednesday. He is the first U.S. men’s college basketball player to confess that he is gay while he is still playing.

“When I started coming out, I didn’t have anyone to look to for advice or to see how their story went. People can look to see what happened to me — and there are positive things going on.”

Messersmith’s coach and teammates already knew about it when he told them last summer. None of them were bothered by it, he said.

“We support Jallen as a Benedictine College student and as a member of the Raven basketball team,” the school statement said. “Obviously, it would be inappropriate for us to discuss the private lives of students. As an institution we treat all students with respect and sensitivity.”

Jallen Messersmith Profile
2011-2012: Jallen had an impressive freshman year bringing a lot of energy off the Bench for BC. He played in 30 games, shot 65.5% from the field, he grabbed 79 rebounds, blocked 19 shots, and averaged 2.5 PPG.

Before Benedictine: Jalen averaged 12.5 points, 10.5 rebounds and 5.5 blocks per game as a senior. Messersmith was selected to the Suburban Big 6 All-Conference First Team and he was voted to the All-Tournament Team for the Carl Junction Tournament. Jalen set the Single Season Blocks Record at Blue Springs High School and was voted MVP, Mr. Hustle, Mr. Defense and Mr. Basketball at Blue Springs High School. ??