From Linsanity to Goodbye: Jeremy Lin Hangs It Up After Chasing One Last Shot….

Former NBA standout Jeremy Lin has officially announced his retirement from professional basketball.

On Saturday, the Taiwanese-American guard shared the news with his 2.1 million Instagram followers, posting a montage of career highlights narrated by his family members congratulating him on his retirement.

In an emotional caption, Lin reflected on his 15-year journey in the sport, expressing deep gratitude for the highs and lows that shaped his career.

“As athletes, we always know retirement is a possibility,” Lin wrote. “Even though I’ve prepared myself for this day, saying goodbye to basketball is the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make.”

He continued, “It’s been the privilege of a lifetime to compete against the best on the biggest stages, and to defy expectations as someone who looked different from the norm. I fulfilled childhood dreams I didn’t think were possible—playing in front of fans all around the globe. I’ll always be that kid who felt most alive with a basketball in hand.”

Lin also thanked those who supported him throughout his career, writing, “So many people poured into this journey. I can never repay you all, but thank you for believing in me, for being with me through every moment. I never wanted the ride to end, but I know it’s time. Though I’ll miss playing, this isn’t goodbye—our journey continues. Here’s to the future. Love you all.”

After going undrafted in 2010 despite an impressive college career at Harvard—where he averaged 17.1 points and 2.4 steals over his final two seasons—Lin faced doubts about his athleticism at the pro level.

He began his NBA career with the Golden State Warriors but saw limited action, averaging 2.6 points and 1.4 assists over 29 games.

Everything changed when the New York Knicks picked him up off waivers in late 2011. In February 2012, with the Knicks struggling, head coach Mike D’Antoni gave Lin a chance. Lin responded with 25 points and 7 assists off the bench against the New Jersey Nets—launching the unforgettable “Linsanity” era.

During an electrifying 11-game stretch, Lin averaged 23.9 points and 9.2 assists while leading the Knicks to a 9-2 record. His meteoric rise captivated fans worldwide and made him a cultural icon, seemingly overnight.

The buzz from “Linsanity” led to a lucrative contract with the Houston Rockets. Lin went on to play for the Lakers, Hornets, Nets, and Hawks, before winning a championship with the Toronto Raptors in 2019—his final NBA stop.

Still dreaming of an NBA return, Lin played overseas in China and Taiwan, but another opportunity never came. He finishes his NBA career with averages of 11.6 points, 4.3 assists, and 1.1 steals on 43.3% shooting over nine seasons.