Filipino-American volleyball player Jordan Lucas has called for greater acceptance and representation of LGBTQ+ athletes in sports, saying players should not have to suppress their identities to succeed in competition.
In an interview on Bilyonaryo News Channel’s The Daily Dish, Lucas said he had always remained true to himself both on and off the volleyball court, refusing to tone down his personality despite the attention surrounding his expressive celebrations.
“I’ve always been the same person on and off the court,” Lucas said. “I am still Jordan the individual, but also Jordan the athlete.”
The openly gay athlete said he wanted to show that athletic excellence and authentic self-expression could go hand in hand, particularly for LGBTQ+ players who may feel uncomfortable expressing themselves in traditionally masculine sporting environments.
Lucas drew widespread attention in April 2026 after an ESPN broadcaster suggested he could face physical assault because of his flamboyant celebrations during matches.
He said the remarks prompted him to reflect on the incident but did not make him fear for his safety, citing the support he received from the men’s volleyball community.
“What I am doing is right,” Lucas said, describing his expressive style as part of who he is.
He added that the broadcaster eventually apologized and that he had forgiven the individual, emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes.
The controversy also strengthened Lucas’ resolve to advocate for LGBTQ+ representation, especially for younger athletes who may not see themselves reflected in professional men’s sports.
“Just to help younger kids understand that, you know, you can be whoever you want to be in sports, just it’ll be celebrated and loved,” he said.
However, Lucas believes sports organizations still have work to do in making athletic environments more inclusive.
He pointed to the reluctance of some leagues in basketball, football and baseball to promote Pride events, noting that openly LGBTQ+ male athletes remain relatively uncommon in those sports.
The volleyball player said he valued being part of the LGBTQ+ community and hoped his visibility would encourage others to pursue their sporting ambitions without feeling pressured to hide their identities.
Lucas also shared his experience playing in the Philippines, where he spent two and a half months in Manila from June to August 2024, training and competing with Alas Pilipinas. He said he enjoyed living in Makati City and developed friendships with Filipino volleyball players, including University of Santo Tomas Golden Spikers standout Josh Ybañez.
Describing his time in the country as an amazing experience, Lucas said he would welcome another opportunity to return.
Beyond volleyball, Lucas is pursuing a master’s degree in sports management and hopes to build a career in sports broadcasting. He also considers education a possible career path, having earned an undergraduate degree in psychology.
Lucas said he was also in a better place personally after a difficult period marked by the death of his mother and his move across the United States to New York City.
He hopes his journey as an openly gay male athlete will help younger players recognize that they can pursue their goals in sports while embracing who they are. (Adrian Co)
