New York (AFP) - Jeremy Lin, the NBA's first US player of Chinese or Taiwanese heritage, declined a $2.2 million offer to return to the Charlotte Hornets next season and will become a free agent.
The 27-year-old point guard, best known for his 7-0 "Linsanity" run with the New York Knicks in 2012, averaged 11.7 points, 3.0 assists and 3.2 rebounds for the Hornets last season.
Lin was a seldom-used reserve with the Knicks until injuries to several starters gave him a chance to play. He sparked New York to seven wins in a row, including late game-winning shots and pinpoint passing to set up teammates.