Missouri All-American defensive end Michael Sam was given a standing ovation during a basketball game against Tennessee on Saturday, according to the Associated Press.

Sam is set to become the first openly gay NFL player.

Sam shook hands with fans and blew a kiss to the student section. Sam and the football team were honored at halftime of the basketball game for defeating Oklahoma State in the Cotton Bowl.

"The majority of us knew and we just didn't think anything of it because that's just who we are here," student body president Mason Schara said. "The fact that there's been such a positive reaction across the nation is what sparked us to be here today. ..

"I am hopeful that the NFL won't care about something like this. It doesn't matter about his sexual orientation. He's a great player and everyone would be lucky to have him."

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Aaron Wilson covers the Ravens for The Baltimore Sun