Jeremy Shu-How Lin is a Taiwanese-American professional basketball player known for "Linsanity," a period of unexpected success with the New York Knicks in 2011-2012. As the first American of Chinese or Taiwanese descent in the NBA, Lin's achievements hold cultural significance. He is a notable Asian American player and the first to win an NBA championship, achieved with the Toronto Raptors in 2019.
1976: The ABA-NBA Merger
The merger between the American Basketball Association (ABA) and the National Basketball Association (NBA) took place in 1976, marking a significant moment in basketball history. Lin's early scoring records are compared to those achieved since the merger.
1977: The NBA Begins Tracking Turnovers
The NBA began officially tracking individual turnovers during the 1977-78 season. This is relevant to Jeremy Lin's performance, as his high turnover rate in his early career starts is highlighted.
1985: The New York Knicks Draft Patrick Ewing
In 1985, the New York Knicks drafted Patrick Ewing, a significant event in the team's history. This is mentioned in the context of Jeremy Lin's success with the Knicks years later.
August 23, 1988: Birth of Jeremy Lin
On August 23, 1988, Jeremy Shu-How Lin was born. He would go on to become a professional basketball player, playing for teams in both the NBA and international leagues.
2005: High School Success and Recognition
During his senior year in 2005, Jeremy Lin led Palo Alto High School to an impressive 32-1 record, culminating in a state championship victory. He received numerous accolades for his performance, showcasing his early potential as a talented basketball player.
2007: Beginning of College Basketball Journey
In 2007, Jeremy Lin embarked on his college basketball career at Harvard University. He started as a relatively unknown player but quickly demonstrated his skills and potential on the court.
2008: Lin Voices Concerns About Racial Bias in Recruitment
In 2008, Lin shared his belief that his ethnicity might have influenced how coaches recruited him during his basketball career.
2008: Breakthrough in College Basketball
Jeremy Lin's sophomore year in 2008 marked a significant period of growth and recognition in his college basketball career. He earned All-Ivy League Second Team honors, establishing himself as a key player for Harvard.
2009: Time Magazine Article Highlights Potential Racial Profiling
A 2009 Time magazine article raised the possibility of racial profiling contributing to Lin's lack of Division I scholarship offers.
2009: National Recognition and Accolades
In 2009, Jeremy Lin garnered national attention for his outstanding performance in college basketball, particularly against top-ranked teams. He received prestigious awards and recognition, solidifying his status as one of the top players in the country.
July 21, 2010: Signing with the Golden State Warriors
On July 21, 2010, Jeremy Lin's professional basketball career took a significant step forward when he signed a contract with the Golden State Warriors. This opportunity allowed him to officially begin his journey in the NBA.
2010: Undrafted and Signed by the Warriors
Despite not being selected in the 2010 NBA draft, Jeremy Lin signed with his hometown team, the Golden State Warriors. This marked the beginning of his professional basketball career.
2010: Navigating the NBA Draft
In 2010, Jeremy Lin faced the challenges and uncertainties of the NBA draft process. Despite going undrafted, he remained determined to pursue his professional basketball dreams.
2010: Graduation from Harvard and Setting Records
In 2010, Jeremy Lin graduated from Harvard University with a degree in economics. He also left an indelible mark on the university's basketball program, setting numerous records and leaving a lasting legacy as one of their most accomplished players.
January 14, 2011: Showcasing Talent in the D-League
On January 14, 2011, while playing for the Reno Bighorns, the D-League affiliate of the Golden State Warriors, Jeremy Lin was named to the All-NBA D-League Showcase First Team. This recognition highlighted his talent and potential, even as he navigated the challenges of playing in the developmental league.
June 2011: Considered for Chinese Taipei National Team
In June 2011, the Chinese Taipei Basketball Association considered including Lin in the national team's preliminary squad for the 2011 FIBA Asia Championship.
July 2011: Withdraws from Chinese Taipei National Team Consideration
In July 2011, Lin withdrew from consideration for the Chinese Taipei national team due to a knee injury, as advised by the Golden State Warriors medical team.
July 2011: Top 8 Influential Chinese-American
In July 2011, Jeremy Lin was named one of the top eight influential Chinese-Americans by Vivid Magazine.
September 2011: International Experience and MVP Award
In September 2011, Jeremy Lin gained valuable international experience by playing for the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) club Dongguan Leopards at the ABA Club Championship in Guangzhou, China. His exceptional performance earned him the tournament's Most Valuable Player (MVP) award.
December 9, 2011: Waiver by the Warriors
On December 9, 2011, Jeremy Lin was waived by the Golden State Warriors. This decision, driven by salary cap considerations, marked a setback in his young career.
December 12, 2011: Lin Briefly Joins the Houston Rockets
On December 12, 2011, Jeremy Lin was claimed off waivers by the Houston Rockets, where he participated in two pre-season games. However, he was waived shortly after on December 24 to make room for center Samuel Dalembert.
2011: Early NBA Career and "Linsanity"
In 2011, Jeremy Lin began his NBA journey, playing for the Golden State Warriors and later the New York Knicks. His time with the Knicks in the 2011-2012 season would be marked by "Linsanity", a period of exceptional performance that brought him international attention.
2011: Brief Stints and Seeking Opportunity
In 2011, Jeremy Lin experienced a series of transitions, being waived by both the Warriors and the Houston Rockets before eventually joining the New York Knicks. This period reflects the challenges and uncertainties often faced by players trying to secure a stable position in the NBA.
February 2, 2012: Lin's Breakout Performance Against New Jersey
On February 2, 2012, Jeremy Lin had a breakout performance against the New Jersey Nets, achieving then-career-highs. This game is significant as it marked the beginning of "Linsanity."
February 4, 2012: Best-Selling Jersey
Lin's jersey became the best-selling online in the NBA in the week of February 4, 2012.
February 10, 2012: Missed Guarantee Date with the Warriors
February 10, 2012, marked the date that Jeremy Lin's contract with the Golden State Warriors would have become fully guaranteed had he remained on the roster. This date serves as a reminder of the business side of basketball and the missed opportunities that can arise.
February 2012: Floyd Mayweather Jr. Comments on Lin's Success
In February 2012, boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. suggested on Twitter that the hype surrounding Lin's performance was due to his Asian ethnicity, sparking debate.
February 2012: Rise to Fame with the Knicks
Jeremy Lin's career took a dramatic turn in February 2012 when he was promoted to the starting lineup for the Knicks. He led the team on a seven-game winning streak, solidifying his status as a rising star and captivating fans worldwide.
February 17, 2012: ESPN Apologizes for Racial Slur Headline
ESPN issued an apology after using a racial slur in a headline about Lin on February 17, 2012. The editor responsible was fired, and Lin later met with him, accepting his apology.
April 2012: Second Highest Selling Jersey
For the one-year period ending April 2012, Lin had the second highest selling jersey in the league behind Derrick Rose.
April 2012: Time 100
Jeremy Lin was named to the Time 100 as one of the most influential people in the world in April 2012.
June 18, 2012: NBA TV Awards
On June 18, 2012, Jeremy Lin won the first-ever "Social Breakout Player of the Year" Award and "The EPIC Award" from NBA TV.
July 2012: ESPY Award for Breakthrough Athlete
In July 2012, Jeremy Lin received the ESPY Award for Breakthrough Athlete of the Year, recognizing his remarkable performance and impact on the NBA during the previous season.
July 2012: ESPY Award
Jeremy Lin won the ESPY Award for Breakthrough Athlete of the Year in July 2012.
July 2012: Market Capitalization Increase
By July 2012, The market capitalization of the Madison Square Garden Company, the team's owner, rose by $600 million.
2012: Playing Style and Career Challenges
Following his breakout year with the Knicks in 2012, Lin faced inconsistency and injuries while being recognized for his offensive skills and criticized for turnovers and defense.
2012: Coach Supports Lin's Claims of Racial Bias
Lin's high school basketball coach corroborated his claims of racial bias in recruitment, citing instances where a black player received more attention from Division I coaches in 2012.
2012: Selected for USA Basketball Men's Select Team
Lin was chosen for the USA Basketball Men's Select Team to scrimmage against the 2012 U.S. Olympic team candidates but couldn't participate due to his restricted free agent status.
2012: "Linsanity" Trademark
Lin trademarked the word "Linsanity" in 2012 to preempt strangers from profiting from his likeness.
2012: Move to NYC and Luxury Condo
After joining the Knicks in 2012, Lin slept on his brother's couch in his one-bedroom apartment before relocating to a luxury condo in White Plains, New York.
2012: Lin Leaves the Knicks for the Houston Rockets
During the 2012 offseason, the New York Knicks encouraged Lin to seek other offers despite his popularity and performance. The Houston Rockets offered him a three-year, $25 million deal which the Knicks chose not to match, surprising many observers. Lin would have been the fourth-highest-paid Knick if they had matched.
January 20, 2013: "Linsanity" Documentary Premiere
A documentary film about Lin, titled "Linsanity", premiered on January 20, 2013, at the Sundance Film Festival.
February 2013: Lin's Performance Improves with the Rockets
After the All-Star break in February 2013, Jeremy Lin saw improvements in his scoring, shooting percentage, and 3-point percentage while playing for the Houston Rockets. The New York Times reported that he was "fitting in well" with the team.
November 14, 2013: ESPN Anchor Apologizes for Racially Charged Comment
ESPN SportsCenter anchor Jorge Andres apologized on November 14, 2013, for making a racially insensitive comment about Lin's performance.
2013: Lin Transitions to Sixth Man Role with the Rockets
During the 2013-14 season, Jeremy Lin transitioned to a sixth man role with the Houston Rockets, coming off the bench as the team's primary ball handler and scoring option.
2013: Lin and NBA Commissioner Address Potential Discrimination
In 2013, Lin revealed his "gut feeling" that his ethnicity played a role in him going undrafted, a sentiment echoed by NBA commissioner David Stern, who acknowledged the possibility of discrimination.
February 1, 2014: Lin Achieves First Career Triple-Double
On February 1, 2014, Jeremy Lin achieved his first career triple-double while playing for the Houston Rockets. He recorded 15 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists in a home game victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
July 13, 2014: Lin Traded to the Los Angeles Lakers
On July 13, 2014, the Houston Rockets traded Jeremy Lin to the Los Angeles Lakers. The trade was part of the Rockets' strategy to create cap space in their pursuit of free agent Chris Bosh.
2014: Madame Tussauds Wax Figure
In 2014, Madame Tussauds unveiled a wax figure of Jeremy Lin at its San Francisco branch.
2014: "Free to Play" Appearance
Lin appeared in "Free to Play", the 2014 documentary centered around the video game Dota 2.
2014: Partners with Whistle Sports Network
In 2014, Lin became a content partner with Whistle Sports Network, making him the first athlete from the four major U.S. sports leagues to produce content for the platform.
January 23, 2015: Lin Benched by the Lakers
On January 23, 2015, Jeremy Lin was benched by Los Angeles Lakers coach Byron Scott. This marked the first time since February 2, 2012, that Lin was healthy but did not play in a game.
July 9, 2015: Lin Signs with Charlotte Hornets
On July 9, 2015, Jeremy Lin signed a two-year, $4.3 million contract with the Charlotte Hornets. The team used their bi-annual exception to acquire him. Although Lin was open to returning to the New York Knicks, they had drafted Jerian Grant to play point guard alongside veteran José Calderón. Lin was expected to back up Hornets point guard Kemba Walker, and coach Steve Clifford envisioned the two pick-and-roll players sharing the court at times.
2015: Lin Discusses Stereotypes and Perceptions
Lin expressed his views in 2015 on how stereotypes about Asian athletes impacted his reputation, particularly regarding turnovers, defense, and the extent to which his ethnicity may have influenced the hype around "Linsanity."
March 21, 2016: Lin's Clutch Performance Leads Hornets to Comeback Victory
On March 21, 2016, Jeremy Lin played a crucial role in the Charlotte Hornets' come-from-behind win against the San Antonio Spurs. The Hornets trailed by 23 points at halftime but rallied in the fourth quarter. Lin scored 15 of his 29 points in the final period, including the game-winning jumper with 48 seconds left on the clock, securing a 91-88 victory.
July 1, 2016: Lin Becomes a Free Agent
On July 1, 2016 Jeremy Lin declined his $2.2 million player option for the 2016-17 season and became an unrestricted free agent.
July 7, 2016: Lin Signs with the Brooklyn Nets
On July 7, 2016, Jeremy Lin signed a three-year, $36 million contract with the Brooklyn Nets. The Nets were then coached by Kenny Atkinson, who had been an assistant coach with the Knicks during "Linsanity."
July 2016: Former Knicks Coach and Teammate Discuss Linsanity
In July 2016, former Knicks coach Mike D'Antoni and Lin's former teammate Amar'e Stoudemire revealed that some Knicks players resented Lin during the Linsanity period.
October 2016: Harvard University Donation
Lin donated $1 million to Harvard University in October 2016 to support undergraduate financial aid and renovations to Lavietes Pavilion.
October 26, 2016: Lin's Debut for the Nets
Jeremy Lin made his debut for the Brooklyn Nets in their season opener against the Boston Celtics on October 26, 2016. Starting for the Nets, he played 27 minutes and scored 18 points, but they lost 122-117.
December 12, 2016: Lin Returns from Hamstring Injury
On December 12, 2016, Jeremy Lin returned to action for the Brooklyn Nets after being sidelined for over a month due to a strained left hamstring. Coming off the bench, he played 20 minutes and contributed 10 points, but the Nets fell short against the Houston Rockets, losing 122-118.
2016: Lin Reflects on Race and Linsanity
Upon returning to New York City in 2016, Lin reflected on "Linsanity," acknowledging the role his ethnicity likely played in its magnitude while also emphasizing the stereotypes he faced throughout his career.
2016: J.Storm Formation
Lin formed his own professional Dota 2 team, known as J.Storm, in 2016.
2016: Comedy Central Appearance
Jeremy Lin starred in an episode of the Comedy Central series Viralocity in 2016, playing a heightened version of himself.
February 24, 2017: Lin Re-enters Starting Lineup After Hamstring Injury
On February 24, 2017, Jeremy Lin was back in the Brooklyn Nets' starting lineup after missing 26 games due to a hamstring strain. He played just under 15 minutes, scoring seven points and providing five assists. However, the Nets lost to the Denver Nuggets, 129-109.
April 6, 2017: Lin Scores Season-High 32 Points
On April 6, 2017, Jeremy Lin achieved a season-high by scoring 32 points for the Brooklyn Nets. Despite his impressive performance, the Nets were defeated by the Orlando Magic, 115-107.
October 18, 2017: Lin Suffers Season-Ending Knee Injury
During the Brooklyn Nets' season opener against the Indiana Pacers on October 18, 2017, Jeremy Lin suffered a ruptured patellar tendon in his right knee after landing awkwardly following a layup, causing him to miss the remainder of the season.
2017: Lin's Lingering Knee Injury
In June 2019, Jeremy Lin admitted that the patellar tendon injury he sustained in 2017 continued to impact his athleticism and his ability to drive to the basket.
July 13, 2018: Lin Traded to Atlanta Hawks
On July 13, 2018, Jeremy Lin was traded to the Atlanta Hawks along with draft picks in exchange for the draft rights to Isaia Cordinier and a future second-round pick. The Hawks brought him in to mentor rookie point guard Trae Young, the fifth overall pick in the draft.
February 11, 2019: Hawks Waive Lin
On February 11, 2019, the Atlanta Hawks waived Jeremy Lin after finalizing a buyout agreement.
February 13, 2019: Lin Joins the Toronto Raptors
On February 13, 2019, after clearing waivers, Jeremy Lin signed with the Toronto Raptors, joining them as they aimed for a playoff run. The Raptors were anticipating a three-week absence of backup point guard Fred VanVleet due to injury and had recently traded guard Delon Wright.
May 28, 2019: "The First Opponent" Release
The music video for "The First Opponent", Lin's single collaboration with MC Jin, was released on YouTube on May 28, 2019.
August 2019: Journey to the Chinese Basketball Association
In August 2019, Jeremy Lin made a significant career move by signing with the Beijing Ducks of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). This decision marked his departure from the NBA and a new chapter in his basketball journey.
August 27, 2019: Lin Signs with Beijing Ducks
On August 27, 2019, Jeremy Lin signed with the Beijing Ducks of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). He reportedly signed for $3 million per year, opting for this opportunity over offers from Russia, Israel, and the EuroLeague.
2019: NBA Championship with the Toronto Raptors
Jeremy Lin achieved a significant career milestone in 2019 by winning the NBA championship with the Toronto Raptors. This win cemented his place in basketball history as the first Asian American player to achieve this honor.
February 1, 2020: CBA Season Postponed Due to COVID-19 Pandemic
On February 1, 2020, the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) made the decision to postpone the season due to the escalating COVID-19 pandemic. The season's resumption was delayed until late June.
February 2020: COVID-19 Donation and Statement
Lin donated ¥1 million (about $144,370) in February 2020 to help those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and spoke out against racism related to the outbreak.
April 2020: COVID-19 Donations and Article
Lin donated $500,000 in April 2020 to Direct Relief and Feeding America to help those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, pledged to match an additional $500,000 in donations, and wrote an article for The Players' Tribune encouraging unity.
May 2020: Knicks Rebroadcast Linsanity Games
In May 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Knicks re-broadcast a week of Linsanity games on the MSG Network.
May 2020: NBA Together Virtual Roundtable
Lin spoke out against anti-Asian racism at an NBA Together Virtual Roundtable held in May 2020.
August 2020: Obtains Taiwan Passport
In August 2020, Jeremy Lin obtained a Taiwan passport.
November 2020: Xtep JLin One Release
In November 2020, Lin released a signature shoe called Xtep JLin One, which was available in Asia, in partnership with Xtep.
December 19, 2020: Golden State Warriors Attempt to Acquire Lin's G League Rights
During the offseason, Jeremy Lin explored opportunities to return to the NBA. His former team, the Golden State Warriors, expressed interest in adding him to their G League affiliate, the Santa Cruz Warriors. They planned to sign and release him on December 19, 2020, to secure his G League rights for Santa Cruz. However, they faced obstacles in obtaining a clearance letter from the Beijing Ducks, partly due to FIBA's offices being closed on weekends.
2020: NBA Introduces "Jeremy Lin Rule"
In 2020, the NBA introduced a new rule allowing teams to designate a five-year NBA veteran to fill a roster spot on their G League team. This rule, dubbed the "Jeremy Lin rule," provided a pathway for experienced players to contribute to the G League.
January 9, 2021: Lin Joins Santa Cruz Warriors
On January 9, 2021, the Santa Cruz Warriors announced the addition of Jeremy Lin to their team for the 2020-21 season. This move was made possible by a new NBA veteran exception rule, which some G League observers dubbed the "Jeremy Lin rule."
May 26, 2021: Harvard College Class Day Speaker
On May 26, 2021, Jeremy Lin addressed the graduating class of Harvard College as their Class Day speaker.
June 11, 2021: Lin Returns to Beijing Ducks
On June 11, 2021, Jeremy Lin announced his return to the Beijing Ducks of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA).
2021: Attempt to Return to the NBA
In 2021, Jeremy Lin pursued a return to the NBA, playing with the Golden State Warriors' development team. This stint reflects his determination and resilience in striving to compete at the highest level of professional basketball.
December 2, 2022: Lin Fined by CBA for Quarantine Remarks
On December 2, 2022, the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) announced a fine of 10,000 yuan ($1,400) against Jeremy Lin for "inappropriate remarks about quarantine hotel-related facilities." This occurred amidst protests in China concerning the country's COVID-19 control measures.
2022: Return to the CBA and Transition
Jeremy Lin returned to the CBA in 2022, playing for the Beijing Ducks and later the Guangzhou Loong Lions. This period was marked by transitions as he navigated different teams and roles within the league.
January 2023: Marriage Announcement
Lin announced on social media in January 2023 that he and his wife, who is Filipino, got married about two years before.
January 26, 2023: Lin Signs with Kaohsiung 17LIVE Steelers
On January 26, 2023, Jeremy Lin joined the Kaohsiung 17LIVE Steelers of the P. League+. This move reunited him with his brother, Joseph, who was playing for the New Taipei Kings in the same league.
April 23, 2023: First 50-Point Triple-Double in PLG History
On April 23, 2023, Jeremy Lin became the first player in Taiwan's PLG history to achieve a 50-point triple-double, with 50 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds.
September 19, 2023: Joins New Taipei Kings with Brother
Jeremy Lin signed with the New Taipei Kings of the P. League+ on September 19, 2023, joining his brother Joseph on the team.
2023: Joining the New Taipei Kings
In 2023, Jeremy Lin joined the New Taipei Kings of the P. League+ (PLG), marking another turning point in his career. This move demonstrates his continued passion for basketball and his pursuit of new opportunities in different leagues.