Openly Gay College Athlete Was Insulted by Announcer. The Moment Went Viral, and Now He Has More Fans Than Ever

It's hard to forget Jordan Lucas. The volleyball player, 22, isn't afraid to let his personality shine on the court. In fact, his colorful style has earned him legions of fans and brought a surge of attention to his team at California State University, Northridge (CSUN).But his jump in popularity was fueled, in part, by an off-color remark made by UC-Irvine broadcaster Charlie Brande, who said live on air during an April 9 game, "I'm amazed Jordan Lucas hasn't been popped by somebody," adding, "The antics he's making under the net, it's very distasteful.Brande's words were met with a slew of backlash — he later issued an apology — and support grew louder for Lucas, who quickly went viral when a wider audience witnessed his on-court style, which includes hair tosses and finger shakes.I think what he said obviously probably should have never been said about any athlete," Lucas, who is openly gay, tells PEOPLE of Brande's comments.