President Obama called NBA center Jason Collins today after news broke that the pro basketball player had come out of the closet, the AP reports:

Obama told Collins he was impressed by his courage. That's according to a White House official who was not authorized to discuss the private conversation publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. Earlier Monday, White House spokesman Jay Carney said Collins' decision was another example of progress and evolution in the U.S. as Americans grow more accepting of gay rights and same-sex marriage.

And First Lady Michelle Obama also offered her support via Twitter:

"So proud of you, Jason Collins! This is a huge step forward for our country. We’ve got your back! -mo"