1. Introduction
Begin with a powerful hook: Jeremy Lin’s journey—from undrafted Ivy League standout to global sensation—captures the essence of perseverance, representation, and basketball excellence.
2. Early Life & Start of Career
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Born August 23, 1988, in Torrance, California. Moved through Palo Alto, raised in a Taiwanese American Christian household.
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Excelled at Harvard, yet went undrafted in 2010. Signed with the Golden State Warriors as an undrafted free agent.
3. Linsanity: The Breakout Moment
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In the 2011–12 season with the New York Knicks, Lin erupted onto the scene with a jaw-dropping stretch that became known as “Linsanity”.
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During his first 10 starts, he averaged approximately 23.9 points and 9.2 assists per game, including a memorable 38-point effort against Kobe Bryant’s Lakers.
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This sensational run led to worldwide attention and changing perceptions regarding Asian Americans in sports.
4. NBA Career: Teams, Stats & Championship
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Teams Played:
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Golden State Warriors (rookie season), New York Knicks, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, Charlotte Hornets, Brooklyn Nets, Atlanta Hawks, and Toronto Raptors.
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Career Averages:
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Over 480 NBA games, averaged 11.6 points, 4.3 assists, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game.
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NBA Championship:
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Captured his sole NBA title with the Toronto Raptors in 2019, becoming the first Asian American champion in NBA history.
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Later Career Overseas:
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After leaving the NBA, Lin played professionally in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) with the Beijing Ducks and Guangzhou Loong Lions, then moved to Taiwan’s P. League+ (PLG)—leading the league in assists—and joined the New Taipei Kings, winning both the PLG (2024) and Taiwan Professional Basketball League (TPLG) championships in 2025.
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5. Retirement: Did He Retire?
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As of mid-2025, there was ambiguity surrounding his retirement—some sources suggested he remained active, with Lin playing for the New Taipei Kings.
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However, in late August 2025, Lin officially announced his retirement after a 15-year professional career via Instagram, calling it “the hardest decision I’ve ever made.” He reflected on his gratitude and journey spanning the NBA and international leagues.
6. Age & Legacy
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Born in 1988, Jeremy Lin was 37 at retirement in 2025.
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Legacy Highlights:
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Undrafted Ivy League product rising to NBA stardom.
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Broke race and representation barriers as an Asian American athlete.
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Played across multiple NBA teams and secured a championship.
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Extended career overseas, capturing titles in Taiwan.
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Now serves as a mentor through initiatives like the JLIN NextGen Basketball Camp, fostering a new generation of AAPI players.
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7. Conclusion
Reiterate Lin’s journey as a story of tenacity and trailblazing—from Palo Alto to the pinnacle of basketball. His career transcended sports, leaving an enduring legacy in representation and inspiration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Did Jeremy Lin retire?
Yes. Jeremy Lin officially announced his retirement from professional basketball in August 2025 after a 15-year career.
Q2: How many NBA seasons did Jeremy Lin play, and what were his career stats?
He played nine NBA seasons across eight teams, averaging 11.6 points, 4.3 assists, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game over 480 regular-season appearances.
Q3: Which NBA teams did Jeremy Lin play for?
Lin played for the Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, Charlotte Hornets, Brooklyn Nets, Atlanta Hawks, and Toronto Raptors.
Q4: Did Jeremy Lin win an NBA championship?
Yes, he won one NBA championship with the Toronto Raptors in 2019.
Q5: What is Linsanity?
“Linsanity” refers to Jeremy Lin’s extraordinary breakout during the 2011–12 season with the New York Knicks, where in just a few weeks he averaged nearly 24 points and 9 assists per game, cementing his global fame.
Q6: How old was Jeremy Lin when he retired?
He was 37 years old at the time of his retirement in 2025.
Q7: What did Jeremy Lin do after his playing career ended?
He continued playing internationally until his retirement. He also launched the JLIN NextGen Basketball Camp to mentor AAPI athletes and foster basketball growth in the community.
