Collins returns to NBA as league's first openly gay player, helps Nets beat Lakers 108-102.

Brooklyn Nets center Jason Collins, left, battles for a rebound with Los Angeles Lakers' Jordan Hill during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Sunday, Feb. 23, 2014, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) (The Associated Press)

Brooklyn Nets center Jason Collins, left, battles for a loose ball with Los Angeles Lakers guard MarShon Brooks during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Sunday, Feb. 23, 2014, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) (The Associated Press)

LOS ANGELES – Jason Collins played his first game with the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday night, becoming the first openly gay active player in the four major U.S. professional sports leagues, and Deron Williams had a season-high 30 points along with seven assists in a 108-102 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.

Collins was signed to a 10-day contract Sunday, nearly 10 months after his announcement on April 29 in Sports Illustrated. He played 10 scoreless minutes with two rebounds and five fouls.

Paul Pierce had 25 points and seven rebounds, helping end an 11-game Nets losing streak against the Lakers.

Pau Gasol had 22 points and 11 rebounds for the Lakers, who never led and lost for the 24th time in 30 games with Kobe Bryant, Steve Nash and Xavier Henry all sidelined by injuries.