NBA: Lin ‘excited’ to move from Knicks to Rockets

NEW YORK, United States (UPDATED) – The New York Knicks confirmed Tuesday, July 17 (Wednesday, July 18 in Manila) they will not match Houston’s offer for Jeremy Lin, allowing the hugely popular point guard who spawned “Lin-sanity” to leave for the Rockets.

The Knicks announced their decision less than two hours before a midnight deadline, and several hours after the New York Times reported the decision had been made.

“Extremely excited and honored to be a Houston Rocket again!!” Lin said on Twitter.

His fate had been the subject of intense speculation since he became a restricted free agent this month. He inked a $25 million offer sheet with the Rockets, but the Knicks had the option of matching it until midnight Tuesday.

The Knicks had vowed to match any offer Lin received. But the Rockets’ offer included a $14.9 million scheduled payment for the third year, which would have cost the Knicks a hefty sum in luxury-tax penalties on excessive salaries.

Knicks star Carmelo Anthony had been among those hoping the young point guard would stay, although he knew money would be an issue.

“I would love to see him back, honestly. I would definitely love to see him back,” Anthony said after a US Olympic team exhibition win over Brazil in Washington on Monday.

“But knowing the business of basketball, it’s kind of a tough situation, kind of for both parties,” Anthony said.

Lin, whose parents are from Taiwan and who has a grandmother from China, became a smash Broadway hit during last season after having been cut by two NBA clubs — including the Rockets.

The then-unknown was cut by the Rockets and picked up by the Knicks last season — shooting to prominence when injuries to two starters allowed him a chance to come off New York’s bench.

Lin responded by sparking a seven-game Knicks winning streak, thrilling New York fans with clutch shooting and passing skills.

“Lin-sanity” became a worldwide phenomenon and even after his role was reduced, he served as an inspirational tale. – Agence France-Presse