On May 19, Jeremy Lin, a Christian basketball player, published a long post on China's Twitter, Weibo, confirming that he had not yet joined the NBA.
Although this was heartbreaking, he was still convinced that he was an NBA player and that God's plan was to bless and give hope. The sports star also encouraged the next generation of Asian players to seize the chance.
He wrote on Weibo, "May 16th. In my mind was an imaginary circle around this date for an NBA callup. The final deadline."
“After a year in the CBA where I overcame mental barriers from my past, I KNEW I was still an NBA player. Teams all asked if I had the hunger, health and skill to hand in the NBA. They wanted to see me hoop in-person,” he added.
He continued, “So I gave up a season overseas to go down to the G League – a move few vets dare make. I’ve always known I need to jump through extra hoops to prove I belong so this was par for the course. I’m really proud of what I accomplished – I killed it in the G League and objectively showed it being a league leader in all categories a PG should and shooting career-highs across the board.”
Lin stated, “For months, I saw others get contracts, chances, opportunities. I told myself I just need ONE ten-day contract, one chance to get back on the floor and I would blow it out the water. After all that’s how my entire career started – off one chance to prove myself.”
“For reasons I’ll never fully know, that chance never materialized. But I proved I’m better than ever and an NBA player. And like I’ve said before…dream big dreams, risk big heartache.
“I’m blessed – I’ve had an NBA career beyond my wildest dreams. I had the luxury of taking a year to chase a dream without worrying about paying bills. My family, friends, business partners all waited on me as I gave up being a go-to player in China to go back to the G League.
“To the next generation of Asian American ballers – man, I so wish I could have done more on the NBA court to break more barriers – esp now – but you guys got next. When you get your shot, do NOT hesitate. Don’t worry whether anyone else thinks you belong. The world never will. If there’s any chance to doubt, they will. But when you get your foot in the door, KICK THAT DOOR DOWN. And then bring others up with you.
“I didn’t get it done, but I have no regrets. I gave my ALL and hold my head high. As for what’s next, I trust what God has in store for me. ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’ Thanks to everyone who's rolled with me on this journey. I love you all❤️”
Fans comments:
"I really admire people who have dreams!
"People who work hard will have good luck, and there will always be your reward. Come on.
"As a veteran, you still have the courage to chase your dream. Whether you succeed or not, you are commendable. It is enough that you have proven yourself."
- Translated by Yuehan Jiang
