Jeremy Lin Announces Retirement: The End of "Linsanity"
The basketball world is bidding farewell to a remarkable era as former NBA star Jeremy Lin officially announced his retirement on Instagram Saturday night.
A Bittersweet Farewell
In his candid post, Lin shared the emotional weight of his decision:
“As athletes, we are always aware that the possibility of retirement is never far away. I’ve spent my 15-year career knowing that one day I would have to walk away, and yet actually saying goodbye to basketball today has been the hardest decision I’ve ever made.”
Lin’s journey in basketball is particularly poignant, reflecting not just personal triumphs but the hopes of countless others who saw in him a beacon of possibility.
Lin’s Basketball Journey
At 37 years old, Lin leaves behind a legacy that includes:
- 9 seasons in the NBA
- Averaging 11.6 points, 4.3 assists, and 1.1 steals across 480 games
His words resonate with gratitude for everyone who supported him along the way:
“So many people have sacrificed and poured into my journey, more than I could ever repay. Thank you all for believing in me, for walking with me, for celebrating my highs, and picking me up in my lows.”
The Rise of "Linsanity"
Perhaps most famously, Lin is celebrated for his explosive breakout season with the New York Knicks during 2011-2012, where he:
- Averaged 14.6 points
- Dished out 6.2 assists
- Showed defensive prowess with 1.6 steals over 35 games
During this iconic period, dubbed "Linsanity," he elevated his scoring to an impressive 25 points per game while providing 9.2 assists and shooting over 50% from the field. This remarkable streak helped propel the Knicks to a seven-game winning streak in February 2012.
Jeremy Lin handles the ball during the second half at Madison Square Garden on March 11, 2012. (Credit: JASON SZENES/NY POST)
Career Highlights and Impact
After going undrafted in 2010, Lin signed with the Golden State Warriors. His career spanned multiple teams, including a notable stint with the Brooklyn Nets. Perhaps the pinnacle of his NBA journey came in 2019 when he won his first and only NBA Championship with the Toronto Raptors.
Notable Career Stats:
- 2011-12 Season: Career-high of 25 points and 9.2 assists
- Championship Wins: NBA Championship with the Raptors in 2019
Post-NBA, Lin transitioned to the Chinese Basketball Association, playing from 2019 to 2023.
A Legacy to Remember
Lin’s heartfelt farewell encapsulated the profound connection he had with his fans:
“I will forever miss playing basketball in front of you all but our time will go beyond just playing. Here’s to what’s ahead.”
Whether you followed him during his generous assists or cheered for him during his iconic drives down the court, Jeremy Lin’s impact on basketball and the communities he touched is indelible.
Reflecting on "Linsanity"
As we reflect on his career, it’s important to recognize the barriers he broke for Asian Americans in sports. His journey is a testament to perseverance and the belief that dreams can turn into reality despite the odds.
For highlights of his career, check out this video that chronicles the rise of "Linsanity."
In closing, Jeremy Lin’s retirement marks not just the end of a career, but the beginning of a new chapter—both for himself and for those inspired by his journey. Here’s to what’s ahead for Jeremy Lin!
