Andrew “AJ” Ogilvy, the former National Basketball League star, has publicly come out as gay ahead of the league’s fourth annual Pride Round. The 37-year-old opened up about his personal journey, explaining why he only now felt ready to share his sexuality after a long basketball career.
Fans quickly celebrated his announcement online. Many credited the queer sports romance series Heated Rivalry for inspiring athletes like Ogilvy to live openly. Social media users highlighted how representation in sports can create real-life impact and social acceptance.
AJ Ogilvy reflects on his career and personal life
In a conversation with Adelaide 36ers star Isaac Humphries, released by the NBL for Pride Round coverage, Ogilvy shared details about his 12-year career. He played 218 games for the Illawarra Hawks and Sydney Kings and had professional stints in Europe. Throughout that time, he never felt comfortable revealing his sexuality publicly.
Ogilvy explained that he kept different parts of his life separate. He even maintained two social media accounts – one for his basketball persona and another for private interactions with close friends. He also revealed he has been married to his husband for nearly 18 months, after meeting him while playing in Sydney.
“I probably didn’t live my life as authentically as I could have during my time, especially in the NBL,” Ogilvy said. He admitted that when he was younger, he felt pressure to present as straight to succeed in professional basketball.
Humphries, who came out in 2022 as the first openly gay male NBL player, joined the conversation. He spoke about how visibility and authentic representation helped him in his own journey.
Fans credit Heated Rivalry for its cultural impact
Social media quickly reacted to Ogilvy’s announcement. Fans praised him for his bravery and linked his coming out to the broader influence of Heated Rivalry. The show, which tells the story of a same-sex romance between rival hockey players, has gained international attention for its emotional storytelling and realistic queer representation.
One fan wrote, “Heated Rivalry will be talked about for generations.” Another said the show isn’t just entertainment but a force for change, helping former athletes come out and challenging homophobic attitudes in sports.
Fans highlighted that the show’s impact goes beyond criticism or negative opinions. “This is why I will never entertain a negative opinion on Heated Rivalry nor all the noise from toxic fans,” one user tweeted. “Because THIS is its real impact, and it’s beautiful.”
Heated Rivalry originally premiered on Crave and later streamed on HBO Max. Its honest portrayal of queer relationships has inspired conversations in sports and pop culture, showing how fiction can influence real lives.
