Written By: Lucas Ting
Who is Jeremy Lin?
Many think of Jeremy Lin as an Asian American basketball player who had a mediocre career in the NBA akin to numerous other NBA role players. However, his basketball career reveals a narrative that left a legacy. His story transcends the typical sport trajectory to one surpassing extraordinary feats, as Lin proves to the world that an Asian American can break the physical barrier of the NBA.
College Career
In Harvard, Jeremy Lin had a rather flourishing career - averaging 16.4 points, 4.4 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 2.4 steals, and 1.1 blocks in his senior year . In addition to earning a unanimous selection in the All-Ivy League First Team, Lin also decided to declare his draft for the NBA.
Despite this, he was not favored by NBA scouts and unfortunately went undrafted in 2010. Basketball experts harbored no belief in his ability. The New York Times described Lin as "a smart passer with a flawed jump shot and a thin frame, who might not have the strength and athleticism to defend, create his own shot or finish at the rim in the N.B.A.
Through unwavering determination, Jeremy Lin was finally invited to summer league games with the Dallas Mavericks. He grasped his opportunity and performed exceptionally, and as a result, he received offers from the Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers, and the Golden State Warriors. On July 21, 2010, Lin ultimately decided to sign a 2 year contract with the Golden State Warriors and began his unexpected career.
Linsanity
In the 2011-2012 season, Lin had a meteoric appearance coined as “Linsanity”. Immediately, he became a global sensation. One game, Lin came off the bench to score 25 points and dish out seven assists in a much-needed win for the Knicks, who had lost 11 of their past 13 games, against the Brooklyn Nets. Similarly , Lin dropped 28 points with eight assists in another win against the Utah Jazz. Continuing this streak, he delivered a phenomenal game-winning triple, defeating the Toronto Raptors, earning him respect from many of the NBA veterans.
During the height of "Linsanity," Jeremy Lin showcased exceptional skills and an uncanny tenacity to lead his team to victories. His electrifying style of play, combined with his humble demeanor and underdog status, resonated with fans around the world.
Jeremy Lin used his quickness, agility, and change of pace to easily attack the paint, which opens up a lot of opportunities for his teammates on the 3-point line. Furthermore, his strong understanding of the game and high basketball IQ allowed him to easily find open teammates on the court.
Lin himself set some impressive milestones throughout his journey:
Lin scored more points in his first five starts than any other player in the modern NBA era.
The Knicks went on a seven-game winning streak with Lin as the starting point guard, revitalizing the team's playoff hopes.
Lin’s unanticipated popularity boosted the NBA’s popularity especially in the Asian market.
Lin's Taiwanese and Asian-American heritage garnered him a massive following, inspiring countless young athletes and breaking down stereotypes about Asian players in basketball.
Lin became the first Asian-American to win an NBA championship in 2019 with the Toronto Raptors.
Ultimately, “Linsanity” came to an end due to injuries, where the torn meniscus on his knee required surgery and ended his season early. Jeremy Lin was then traded from team to team; he was unsuccessful and inconsistent due to recurring injuries.
Where is he now?
Leaving the NBA in 2023, Lin joined the Kaohsiung 17LIVE Steelers in Taiwan’s P-League. This 35 year old player showed that he still had some gas in the tank by averaging 6.3 points, 8.5 rebounds and a P-League high 8.9 assists per game in 19 games with the Steelers. He also set the record for a 50-point triple-double with a final stateline of 50 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds.
Beyond the Game
Jeremy Lin’s journey has made a significant impact on the world. He challenged the stereotype of Asian Athletes; achievingthe highest level of success in basketball, shattering preconceived notions and inspiring a new generation of young Asian athletes to pursue their dreams
Furthermore, Lin utilized his popularity to speak up for social justice causes, including raising awareness about anti-Asian racism and discrimination. He's used his platform to address important issues and promote equality and inclusion.
Conclusion
Jeremy Lin’s legacy, without a doubt, extends far beyond the realms of the basketball court. He demonstrates the influence that athletes can have in society when they use their platform for positive change and when their success challenges stereotypes and transcends cultural boundaries.
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