Christian NBA star Jeremy Lin has just inked a two-year deal with the Charlotte Hornets, and will start playing for the team in the upcoming 2015-2016 NBA season.
In making the announcement on his Facebook page, the point guard who has inspired the phrase "Linsanity" said his decision was made "after a lot of prayer and long discussions with family and friends."
"Going into my first true free agency as an NBA player this off-season, the one thing that mattered to me the most was finding a team that would be a good fit for me. I wanted to be on a team where I would be able to play freely and truly play the game I love with joy again. That has always been the most important thing to me," he said.
Lin admitted that his journey was one he never expected. He thanked God for always working things out for his good, expressing confidence that God will continue to do so.
He also thanked Coach Steve Clifford and the Hornets organisation for giving him the opportunity to play for them. He also expressed gratitude to them "for taking the time to talk to me, understanding my game, and most importantly, making it clear they believe in me."
As he leaves the Los Angeles Lakers, the team he played for during the past season, Lin thanked his former teammates, the Lakers' coaching staff and management for the support they have given him.
"I have no idea what is coming next, but I promise I will do everything in my power to contribute to this team and to improve as a player and as a person. Here's to the next chapter!" he said.
According to ESPN, the terms of Lin's deal with the Charlotte Hornets were not revealed except for the fact that it will last two years and is worth $4.3 million.
"The 6-foot-3 Lin has played in 291 NBA games for the Warriors, Knicks, Rockets and Lakers in five seasons, averaging 11.7 points, 4.8 assists, 2.6 rebounds and 1.3 steals in 26.9 minutes," ESPN wrote. "The 26-year-old Lin is expected to back up Kemba Walker in Charlotte and run the second-team offense."
