Jeremy Lin Retirement: NBA Champion Announces Farewell
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Jeremy Lin: From ‘Linsanity‘ to a Nine-Year NBA Career
Table of Contents
A look back at teh whirlwind phenomenon of “Linsanity” and the lasting impact of jeremy Lin’s improbable NBA journey.
Updated August 31, 2025, at 3:19 PM PDT
The Rise of ’Linsanity’
In February 2012, Jeremy Lin, then an undrafted Harvard graduate playing for the New York Knicks, sparked a global sensation known as “Linsanity.” After being largely overlooked,Lin was thrust into a starting role due to injuries and seized the opportunity,leading the Knicks to a series of improbable victories. The New York Times detailed his breakout performance against the Los Angeles Lakers on February 10, 2012, where he scored 25 points and dished out 7 assists.
The fervor surrounding Lin was unprecedented. he became a cultural phenomenon, notably within the Asian American community, who celebrated his success as a rare and inspiring example of representation in professional sports. Accounts from the time describe Lin running past reporters shouting “Linsanity,” while waving his arms in the air, a testament to the electrifying energy he generated.
NBA Career and Earnings
While the initial “Linsanity” surge didn’t translate into sustained dominance with the Knicks, it propelled Lin to a lucrative three-year, $25 million contract with the Houston Rockets in 2012. Over his nine-year NBA career, Lin played for a total of eight teams: the Golden State Warriors, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, Charlotte Hornets, Brooklyn Nets, Atlanta Hawks, New York Knicks, and Toronto Raptors.
Throughout his NBA tenure, Lin averaged 11.6 points, 4.3 assists, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game. He earned over $60 million in salary during his time in the league. His career statistics demonstrate a consistent, if not breathtaking, contribution across multiple franchises.
| Team | Years | Games Played | Points Per Game | Assists Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golden State Warriors | 2010-2011 | 29 | 2.6 | 1.4 |
| New York Knicks | 2011-2012 | 35 | 14.5 | 6.2 |
| Houston Rockets | 2012-2014 | 115 | 11.7 | 4. |