Jeremy Lin’s journey from an overlooked Harvard player to a global basketball sensation is one of the most inspiring stories in NBA history.
His career stats tell a story of perseverance, skill, and adaptability, showcasing his impact both on and off the court.
From his early years with the Golden State Warriors to his breakout performances with the New York Knicks, and through his time with multiple NBA teams, Lin’s numbers reflect a player who consistently contributed in scoring, assists, and leadership.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into Jeremy Lin’s career stats, season by season, exploring his points per game, assists, rebounds, shooting percentages, records, and overall legacy in professional basketball.
Early Life and College Career
Jeremy Lin was born on August 23, 1988, in Torrance, California, to Taiwanese-American parents. From a young age, he showed a natural talent for basketball, combining speed, agility, and court vision. Despite his skills, Lin faced skepticism from scouts due to his size and background, which made his journey to the NBA more challenging than most.
Lin attended Harvard University, where he played for the Crimson from 2006 to 2010. During his college career, he steadily improved, becoming one of the team’s leading scorers and a reliable playmaker. Over four seasons, Lin averaged 16.4 points, 4.5 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game, while shooting around 43% from the field and 39% from three-point range in his senior year. His strong work ethic and basketball IQ earned him Ivy League Player of the Year honors and recognition as one of the top collegiate point guards despite playing in a conference that receives less national attention.
Despite his impressive stats, Jeremy Lin went undrafted in the 2010 NBA Draft, a setback that did not deter him. His college performance laid the foundation for his professional career, showcasing his scoring ability, court vision, and leadership skills—qualities that would later define the “Linsanity” era. Lin’s Harvard experience proved that determination and skill could overcome initial doubts, setting the stage for his breakthrough in the NBA.
NBA Draft and Early Professional Years
After an impressive college career at Harvard, Jeremy Lin entered the 2010 NBA Draft, but despite his stats and skillset, he went undrafted. Many scouts doubted his ability to compete at the professional level due to his height (6’3”), his Ivy League background, and his relatively untested experience against top-tier athletes. However, Lin’s determination and perseverance helped him secure a spot with the Golden State Warriors for the 2010–2011 season.
In his rookie season, Lin played limited minutes, appearing in 29 games and averaging 2.6 points and 1.6 assists per game. While these numbers were modest, they gave him a chance to adapt to the NBA’s speed and physicality. Lin’s vision, quick decision-making, and energy on the court stood out even in limited playtime, signaling potential for growth.
In 2011, Lin was waived by the Warriors and picked up by the New York Knicks, where he initially served as a backup point guard. Early performances were inconsistent, but Lin showed flashes of scoring ability and court awareness. His perseverance paid off when he was given more playing time during the 2011–2012 season, setting the stage for the breakout “Linsanity” period.
These early years highlight Lin’s resilience and adaptability, proving that despite being overlooked in the draft, he possessed the talent, work ethic, and basketball IQ to succeed in the NBA. His journey from college standout to a professional player demonstrates the challenges and determination required to make an impact at the highest level.
The “Linsanity” Era
Jeremy Lin’s career reached a historic high during the 2011–2012 NBA season with the New York Knicks, a period famously known as “Linsanity.” After starting the season as a bench player, Lin was unexpectedly given the starting point guard role due to injuries and underperformances on the team. He immediately seized the opportunity, delivering electrifying performances that captured global attention.
During this period, Lin averaged over 22 points and 9 assists per game across a series of breakout games. His scoring ability, combined with exceptional court vision, allowed him to orchestrate the Knicks’ offense effectively. Notable games included his 38-point performance against the Los Angeles Lakers and his consecutive 20+ point games that sparked media frenzy. Lin also contributed 4–6 rebounds per game, demonstrating his all-around game despite being a point guard.
“Linsanity” was not just about statistics—it represented a cultural moment. Jeremy Lin became the first American of Chinese or Taiwanese descent to achieve such NBA prominence, inspiring millions of fans worldwide. His high-energy play, clutch scoring, and unselfish passing earned him recognition from players, coaches, and analysts alike.
The Linsanity era cemented Jeremy Lin’s place in NBA history, highlighting both his skill and his resilience. From underdog to superstar in a matter of weeks, his career stats during this time reflect peak performance, leadership, and the global impact of his remarkable rise. Lin’s numbers and influence during Linsanity remain some of the most memorable moments in recent NBA history.
Career Progression – Houston Rockets and Later NBA Teams
After the peak of “Linsanity”, Jeremy Lin continued his NBA journey with several teams, maintaining solid contributions despite not reaching the same media frenzy. In 2012, Lin signed with the Houston Rockets, where he averaged 13.4 points and 6.1 assists per game in his first season. His ability to create plays, manage the offense, and score in clutch moments remained evident. Lin also displayed growth in three-point shooting, reaching 37% from beyond the arc, and improved his defensive stats with an average of 1.4 steals per game.
Lin’s career later took him to the Los Angeles Lakers (2014–2015), where he averaged 11.2 points and 4.6 assists per game, showing consistent playmaking despite being a secondary option alongside star teammates. He then played for the Charlotte Hornets, contributing as a reliable backup point guard and averaging around 12 points and 5 assists per game.
Subsequent stints included the Brooklyn Nets, Atlanta Hawks, and Toronto Raptors, where Lin’s role shifted toward mentorship and supporting younger players. While his minutes were often reduced, he maintained efficiency, shooting over 40% from the field in several seasons. Notably, Lin won an NBA Championship with the Toronto Raptors in 2019, adding a crowning achievement to his professional career.
Throughout these years, Jeremy Lin’s career stats demonstrate consistency, adaptability, and professionalism, proving that even after his Linsanity peak, he remained a valuable player on multiple NBA rosters. His ability to contribute in scoring, assists, and leadership made him a respected figure across the league.
Career Totals and Records
Over his NBA career, Jeremy Lin accumulated impressive statistics that reflect his skill, versatility, and consistency as a professional basketball player. Across nine NBA seasons, Lin played 480+ regular-season games, starting in over 250 of them. His career averages include approximately 11.6 points, 4.3 assists, and 2.8 rebounds per game, with a field goal percentage around 43% and a three-point shooting percentage near 35%.
In addition to scoring, Lin contributed defensively, averaging 1 steal per game over his career, highlighting his ability to impact games on both ends of the floor. His playoff contributions include appearances with the Houston Rockets, Brooklyn Nets, and Toronto Raptors, where he played key roles off the bench and helped the Raptors secure the 2019 NBA Championship, marking a historic milestone in his career.
Beyond numbers, Lin’s career totals serve as a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and professionalism. From undrafted rookie to NBA champion, Jeremy Lin’s statistics tell a story of a player who defied expectations and left a lasting impact on the league, both statistically and culturally.
International Play and Post-NBA Career
After a decade in the NBA, Jeremy Lin expanded his basketball career internationally, showcasing his skills in overseas leagues and continuing to inspire fans worldwide. In 2020, Lin signed with the Beijing Ducks of the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA), where he brought NBA-level experience to the team. During his time in the CBA, Lin maintained strong performance metrics, averaging 15–20 points per game, along with 6–7 assists and 4–5 rebounds, demonstrating his continued ability to contribute as a playmaker and leader on the court.
Playing internationally allowed Lin to refine aspects of his game, including shooting efficiency and court vision, while also serving as a mentor to younger players. His presence significantly boosted the visibility of basketball in Asia, bridging the gap between the NBA and international fans. Lin’s popularity in China and other Asian markets highlighted the cultural and commercial impact he carries beyond just stats, making him one of the most recognizable basketball figures worldwide.
Post-NBA, Lin has also engaged in charity work, coaching clinics, and media projects, further cementing his legacy off the court. While official NBA play may be behind him, his international career and post-NBA endeavors reflect a continued dedication to the sport and to inspiring the next generation of athletes. Jeremy Lin’s journey demonstrates that a successful basketball career isn’t confined to one league—it can extend globally, leaving a lasting legacy both statistically and culturally.
Style of Play and Strengths
Jeremy Lin’s playing style combines quickness, intelligence, and versatility, making him an effective point guard both as a scorer and playmaker. Known for his court vision, Lin excels at creating opportunities for teammates, averaging strong assist numbers throughout his career. His ability to read defenses and deliver timely passes allowed him to orchestrate offenses efficiently, especially during fast breaks and pick-and-roll situations.
Lin’s scoring ability is another hallmark of his game. He is particularly effective driving to the basket, using agility and body control to navigate defenders despite not being the tallest guard on the court. His mid-range jumper and three-point shooting, especially during his peak years, added depth to his scoring arsenal, keeping defenses on their toes. During “Linsanity,” he regularly scored over 20 points in consecutive games, proving his ability to take over offensively.
Defensively, Lin is tenacious and intelligent, often disrupting passing lanes and recording steals. He leverages anticipation and positioning rather than purely athleticism, demonstrating a high basketball IQ. While not a dominant rebounder, his effort and timing allow him to contribute effectively in this area when needed.
Beyond raw numbers, Lin’s greatest strength lies in his adaptability and leadership. He has thrived in multiple roles, from starter to backup, across different teams and leagues. His ability to adjust to team needs, maintain efficiency, and lead by example makes him a well-rounded player. Jeremy Lin’s style combines skill, intelligence, and determination, leaving a lasting mark on the game.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Jeremy Lin’s legacy extends far beyond statistics, as he became a symbol of perseverance and representation in the NBA. His rise during the “Linsanity” era demonstrated that talent and determination could overcome stereotypes and challenges, giving hope to aspiring athletes from underrepresented communities.
On the court, Lin’s consistent performance and professionalism across multiple NBA teams showcased his dedication to the game. His career stats, including over 5,000 points and 2,000 assists, reflect both skill and resilience, while his leadership qualities were evident in mentoring younger teammates. Lin’s ability to adapt to various roles—starter, backup, or international player—demonstrated versatility and a team-first mentality, earning respect from coaches, peers, and fans alike.
Off the court, Lin has influenced global basketball culture, particularly in Asia. His popularity increased the NBA’s reach in Asian markets, and he has used his platform for charitable work, youth development programs, and community engagement. Lin’s story also highlights the importance of representation in professional sports, showing that success is possible regardless of background or initial setbacks.
Jeremy Lin’s legacy is a combination of statistical achievement, cultural significance, and inspirational influence. While his numbers tell the story of a successful basketball career, his broader impact inspires future generations to pursue their dreams, break barriers, and make their mark in the world of sports.
FAQs:
1. What is Jeremy Lin’s career average points per game?
Jeremy Lin has averaged approximately 11.6 points per game over his NBA career, reflecting consistent scoring ability across multiple teams and seasons.
2. How many teams did Jeremy Lin play for in the NBA?
Lin played for seven NBA teams: Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, Charlotte Hornets, Brooklyn Nets, Atlanta Hawks, and Toronto Raptors.
3. What was Jeremy Lin’s highest-scoring game?
During the Linsanity era, Lin scored a career-high 38 points against the Los Angeles Lakers on February 10, 2012, showcasing his scoring and playmaking skills in one of his most memorable performances.
4. Did Jeremy Lin win an NBA Championship?
Lin won his first NBA Championship with the Toronto Raptors in 2019, contributing as a reliable backup guard during their playoff run.
5. What are Jeremy Lin’s total career assists and rebounds?
Over his NBA career, Lin accumulated approximately 4,300 assists and 1,350 rebounds, highlighting his dual role as a facilitator and a contributor on the boards.
6. How did “Linsanity” impact Jeremy Lin’s career?
Linsanity” catapulted Lin to global fame, increased his marketability, and demonstrated his ability to perform at an elite level, setting the stage for opportunities with multiple NBA teams.
7. Is Jeremy Lin still playing professional basketball?
After his NBA career, Lin played internationally with the Beijing Ducks in the CBA and continues to remain active in basketball through mentorship, coaching clinics, and media projects.
Conclusion
Jeremy Lin’s basketball career is a remarkable story of perseverance, talent, and cultural significance. From going undrafted in 2010 to becoming the global phenomenon of “Linsanity”, Lin demonstrated that determination and skill could overcome even the toughest obstacles.
His career stats averaging 11.6 points, 4.3 assists, and 2.8 rebounds per game reflect not only his scoring and playmaking ability but also his consistency and adaptability across multiple teams and leagues
His leadership, professionalism, and mentorship on and off the court have left a lasting impression on teammates, coaches, and fans alike.
Lin’s championship with the Toronto Raptors in 2019 added a crowning achievement to his career, demonstrating his ability to contribute to team success at the highest level.
Moreover, Lin’s international play, charity work, and ongoing involvement in basketball reflect a commitment to the sport that goes beyond personal accolades.
His journey from a Harvard standout to NBA star, and later an international ambassador of the game illustrates the power of resilience, adaptability, and hard work.
