Several NBA general managers believe Jason Collins remains unsigned not because of his skill level or sexual orientation, but because of the anticipated media distraction.

“If it were just an initial blast and you knew it would settle down after that, it would be one thing,” said one executive. “But you know this is something that he and his teammates are going to be asked about everywhere they go, all season long, and all it takes is one guy to say something a little off and it could really blow up. He’s still good enough to play in the league, but when you throw in the ongoing media frenzy, most teams are going to decide it’s just not worth it.”

Collins finished last season with the Washington Wizards and continues to workout in hopes of signing with an NBA team.