MEAWW.COM / NEWS / CELEBRITY NEWS

Who called Jeremy Lin 'coronavirus' on G League court? Warriors guard lauded for 'Anti-Asian racism' stance

'Being a 9 year NBA veteran doesn’t protect me from being called ‘coronavirus’ on the court,' Lin said in a social media rant

Former NBA star Jeremy Lin has been extremely vocal about the spike in Asian hate crimes following the spread of the coronavirus pandemic as many American leaders blamed officials in China, where the virus was first reported. The Santa Cruz Warriors guard insinuated this through a disturbing admission in a rant on Instagram and Facebook on Thursday, which has now led the NBA G League to open an investigation into the statements. “Being an Asian American doesn’t mean we don’t experience poverty and racism,” Lin's post read. “Being a 9 year NBA veteran doesn’t protect me from being called ‘coronavirus’ on the court.”

Earlier this week, Lin spoke passionately when he joined NBC Sports Bay Area's 'Race In America: A Candid Conversation' to discuss the recent uptick in racially-motivated attacks on Asian Americans across the US. “That makes me want to do something. It makes me want to educate people or speak out and find ways to make a difference," Lin, a Palo Alto native currently playing with Santa Cruz Warriors in the G League bubble in Orlando, Florida, had said.

READ MORE

Coronavirus fear turns racist as attacks on Asian Americans rise sharply in US: 'Could have been foreseen'

From racism and stereotyping to acceptance and celebration, Asian American actors chart community's portrayal in Hollywood over the years

Who called Jeremy Lin 'coronavirus'?

The NBA G League is opening an investigation into Lin’s claim that he has been called 'coronavirus' on the court, according to a report by the Athletic.

Asked whether he’d support an investigation into Lin’s allegation, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said that he would. Before Friday’s game against Charlotte Hornets, he lauded Lin for speaking up against the wave of violence against Asian Americans. “I just saw the … post just now, really powerful,” Kerr said. “I applaud Jeremy for his words and echo his sentiments regarding racism against the Asian-American community. It’s just so ridiculous. And obviously, spawned by many people — including our former president, as it relates to the coronavirus originating in China."

'Biggest shock is Jeremy Lin is in the G League'

Fans lauded Lin for opening up. "Jeremy Lin speaking about Asian American Racism in America is something that is long overdue. I remember being treated differently just because the shape of my eyes and asked if i was really born here Sadly, no one will listen, no news will cover this, and nothing will be done." Another said, "Jeremy Lin said the same thing, from the opposite side. Not they should *expect* fast results, but to learn from the opposition BLM faces. He also said Asians need to have solidarity with black & brown people. It’s right & it makes everyone stronger Malcolm X said similar." Another added, "Bro whoever called Jeremy Lin “Coronavrius” I hope you get kicked out of the league."

Some wondered why Lin, a veteran basketball player, was in a minor league such as the G-League. "Biggest shock is Jeremy Lin is in the G League," said a tweet. One said, "Bro with all due respect to BHM, Jeremy Lin is calling people out on their bullshit. Racism doesn’t wait, he’s calling it out before it gets worse. I understand that it is Black History Month but it doesn’t excuse anti-Asian racism."

'Jeremy Lin could name names if he wanted'

Others wondered why Lin was shying away from naming the person who called him 'coronavirus' in the first place. "Jeremy Lin could name names if he wanted but something tells me he's not going to do so. Without team executives or players stepping forward to own the behavior, they are enabling ugliness. What now? How can "right" come about, humanity shown and fences mended? #coronavirus #nba," said a tweet. Others insinuated it was black people who used the slur on him. "All the violent anti-Black racism in the US by Asians and in Asian countries get swept under rug... But the white media is going full throttle with THIS narrative.... Jeremy Lin insinuates Black racist players have called him ‘coronavirus’ on the court," said a tweet.

According to racial equality activist Richard Lapchick, the NBA in 2020 was composed of 74.2 percent Black players, 16.9 percent White players, 2.2 percent Latino players of any race and 0.4 percent Asian players.