New Taipei Kings' Jeremy Lin announces retirement from basketball

新北國王隊的林書豪宣布退役

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Jeremy Lin (林書豪), the Taiwanese American basketball star who sparked “Linsanity” with the New York Knicks and most recently played for the New Taipei Kings, officially announced his retirement on social media Sunday, per CNA.

On Instagram, Lin wrote, “Saying goodbye to basketball today has been the hardest decision I’ve ever made.”

Lin is best remembered for “Linsanity,” a stunning stretch of NBA games in February 2012 when he rose from the Knicks bench to lead the team with high-scoring performances. He became the first player in NBA history to record at least 20 points and 7 assists in his first five starts, transforming into an overnight cultural icon whose story transcended sports and challenged racial stereotypes.

His NBA breakout was cut short by a knee injury requiring surgery, while the return of Knicks star Carmelo Anthony reduced his playing time. Lin was later traded to the Houston Rockets.

Born in San Francisco to a Taiwanese American family, Lin was not offered athletic scholarships but went on to play at Harvard University, where he was a three-time All-Ivy League selection.

In the later stages of his career, Lin returned to Taiwan and joined the New Taipei Kings, leading the team to back-to-back championships in 2024 and 2025 and earning Finals MVP honors.

“It’s been the honor of a lifetime to compete against the fiercest competitors under the brightest lights and to challenge what the world thought was possible for someone who looks like me. I have lived out my wildest childhood dreams to play in front of fans all around the world,” Lin wrote.

New Taipei Kings General Manager James Mao (毛加恩) said Lin contributed far beyond statistics and victories, bringing “professionalism, hard work, and selflessness.” He added, “We are honored to have had Lin’s devotion and contributions over the years and wish him the best in the next chapter of his life.”