NBA sideline reporter Brooke Olzendam was broken when her husband died of a heart attack just 10 days after their wedding.

Former University of Oregon quarterback Andy Collins was only 27 when he collapsed while running on a treadmill in July 2011.

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Brooke Olzendam is a sideline reporter for the Portland Trail BlazersCredit: Instagram/bolzendam

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The broadcaster is about to start her eighth season with the NBA teamCredit: Instagram/bolzendam

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Olzendam is raising money for heart charities following her husband’s tragic deathCredit: Instagram/bolzendam
Olzendam fell into a state of depression but she eventually found her calling through work, rising through the ranks to become one of the NBA’s leading sideline personalities with the Portland Trail Blazers.

And the sports broadcaster is now hoping to use her late husband’s story to help others with heart disease.

In 2020, Olzendam launched the Brooke Hearts Your Heart campaign to spread awareness and raise money for the American Heart Association.

Since its inception, Brooke Hearts Your Heart has raised nearly $60,000.

“There’s a need for more CPR training, AEDs to help people right away and more research,” Olzendam said.

“If I can change just one life by sharing my story, it will be worth it.”

Olzendam is still mourning for Collins 12 years on but she has found purpose in her charitable work.

“I still grieve and will never fully understand the why of this,” she added.

“But I have to move on for Andy, my family, and the future me. Because that’s what Andy would have wanted.

“The term ‘widow; is a tough one for me.

“I got to live life with Andy for almost three years. And for 10 days I got to be his wife.

“It was short, but it was amazing. He taught me so much. He made me so happy.

“Yes, I am a widow. But that doesn’t mean I am not hopeful for the rest of my life.

“It was a dark chapter of this long story.”

Olzendam is about to start her eighth season with the Trail Blazers, having previously worked for the Indiana Pacers.

She is the courtside reporter for all home and road Trail Blazers game telecasts, and also serves as the pre, half and post-game co-host for home games.

“Truly when I say dream job, I’m not just blowing smoke,” Olzendam said.

“It truly is.”