NBA: Lin declines Hornets deal, opts for free agency

Charlotte Hornets guard Jeremy Lin (7) looks for a shot as Brooklyn Nets forward Thaddeus Young (30) and guard Shane Larkin (0) defend during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Tuesday, March 22, 2016, in New York. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)

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.

Lin spent the next two seasons with Houston and the following campaign with the Los Angeles Lakers before joining the Hornets last year.

The Hornets have several players who become free agents July 1 including center Al Jefferson and forwards Nicolas Batum of France, Marvin Williams and Tyler Hansbrough.