Coronavirus: Jeremy Lin Pledges Support To New York City, Matches Knicks' Donation

Jeremy Lin continues his efforts in helping those who are affected by the Coronavirus crisis. Following his commitments to different organizations focused on fighting the virus, the ex-NBA phenom felt it’s time to extend his hands to the city he once called his second home.

Lin announced on Monday that he will be matching the Knicks’ donation to New York City, which continues to be severely hit by COVID-19.

“New York, you guys will always have a special, special place in my heart,” he said. “I will definitely be thinking about you guys and praying about you guys during this upcoming week. I am also excited to be able to share some of the Linsanity experiences to bring some hope and joy, and if you guys want to bring hope and joy to others I encourage you to join me in donating to Direct Relief and Feeding America. I will be matching every single donation.”

Lin got his ticket to fame when his Cinderella run in 2012 came as a bolt from the blue, and temporarily placed New York City back to the basketball map.

But despite the unprecedented showcase, the Asian-American still ended up being traded in the next season. Eight years later, he exited the NBA to play for the Beijing Ducks in the Chinese Basketball Association.

But with “Linsanity” being the highlight of his career, the 31-year-old knows it is his responsibility to inspire and aid the people of New York, especially in a challenging time such as this.

"Each act of goodness matters. Each positive choice will add up. In adversity, we will persevere. In challenges, we will overcome. In fear, we will have faith. And in darkness, we will be Light,” Lin wrote on The Players’ Tribune as he pledged $1 million in relief efforts in America.

In March, Lin and his foundation donated one million Chinese yuan and $150,000 aimed at providing medical equipment to Wuhan, which is reportedly the ground zero of the Coronavirus.

As of posting, New York City has about 160,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19, with 30,728 recoveries and 12,287 deaths.