Jeremy Lin Scores 40 on Beijing Ducks Debut

Former Toronto Raptors point guard Jeremy Lin has begun to resurrect his career in China at a peculiar time.

Jeremy Lin is the first American of Chinese or Taiwanese descent to play in the NBA. During a week where the NBA’s relationship with China was thrown into turmoil, he made his debut in the CBA.

Jeremy Lin turned down offers from Europe to play for the Beijing Ducks of the Chinese Basketball association.

Lin scored 40 points in a preseason game against the Zheijan Lions on Sunday. The 31 year old said in July that he’s always wanted to play in Asia. 

“About five years ago, I began to consider whether I should play basketball in Asia,” Lin said.

“Because every year when I visit the region I see so many fans, and they make me want to play a few seasons in the region.”

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Lin is the NBA’s famous forgotten player, following an introspective summer where he tried to find a team.

He has an NBA Championship medal from his time with the Toronto Raptors, although he was only a bit part player.

“Every year it gets harder,” Lin said.

“In English there’s a saying and it says once you hit rock bottom, the only way is up,” he said.

“But rock bottom just seems to keep getting more and more rock bottom for me. So, free agency has been tough. Because I feel like in some ways the NBA’s kind of given up on me.”

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There are a number of examples of players making it back to the NBA following a stint in China. Notably, Jimmer Fredette got a two year deal with the Suns last season after playing in China for three years.

However, considering how tough Lin has found the NBA, and the current situation with China, he may decide to stay in the country for the rest of his career.