After a 9-years, it seems like 2019 Champion Jeremy Lin might be calling the end of his NBA career.
Lin, who hasn’t played since 2019, recently returned to the G-League after a stint of overseas ball, hoping that his play would attract the attention of league scouts.
Unfortunately, it seems no team is willing to bit, promoting Lin to post a lengthy and heartfelt post on Facebook, where he seemingly, unofficially, announces his retirement.
May 16th. In my mind was an imaginary circle around this date for an NBA callup. The final deadline.
After a year in the CBA where I overcame mental barriers from my past, I KNEW I was still an NBA player. Teams all asked if I still had the hunger, health and skill to hang in the NBA. They wanted to see me hoop in-person.
So I gave up a season overseas to go down to the G League – a move few vets dare to make. Ive always known I need to jump through extra hoops to prove I belong so this was par for the course. Im really proud of what I accomplished – I killed it in the G League and objectively showed it being a league leader in all the categories a PG should and shooting career-highs across the board.
For months, I watched as others got contracts, chances, opportunities. I told myself I just need ONE ten-day contract, one chance to get back on the floor and I would blow it out the water. After all that’s how my entire career started – off one chance to prove myself.
For reasons I’ll never fully know, that chance never materialized. But I proved Im better than ever and an NBA player. But like I’ve said before…dream big dreams, risk big heartache.
I know I’m blessed – I’ve had an NBA career beyond my wildest dreams. I’ve had the luxury of taking a year to chase a dream w/o worrying about paying bills. My family, support team, business partners all waited on me as I gave up being a go-to player in China to go back to the G League.
To the next generation of Asian American ballers – man, I so wish I could have done more on the NBA court to break more barriers – especially now- but you guys got next. When you get your opportunity, do NOT hesitate. Don’t worry whether anyone else thinks you belong there. The world never will. When you get your foot in the door, KICK THAT DOOR DOWN. And then bring others up with you.
I didnt get it done this season, but I have no regrets and hold my head high. As for whats next, I trust what God has in store for me. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Thanks to everyone whose rolled w me on this journey. I love you all.
The greatest stretch of Lin’s career was during his stint with the Knicks when he absolutely exploded offensively. It was dubbed “Linsanity,” and the performance is still remembered and celebrated today.
Lin was never able to produce those numbers again, and his career eventually took a nosedive after injuries.
Still, he helped break some barriers between high-level basketball and Asian Americans. And for that, he has definitely made his mark.
