(ThyBlackMan.com) Boxing superstar Floyd Mayweather Jr. recently got attention for stating that New York Knicks player Jeremy Lin is getting additional attention and adulation because he is Asian. Floyd Mayweather Jr. is known for making comments that leave people shaking their heads, and that’s what makes him money.
When I was asked about Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s remarks, I cocked my head to the side and thought about it. Actually, Floyd Mayweather Jr. is right, but for all the wrong reasons.
Let’s keep it real: Jeremy Lin is beloved, in large part, because he is such an oddity. Almost never do you see an Asian player (or even non-black for that matter) play with the skill that he has shown during his first four starts with 
the New York Knicks. If I were Asian, I’d be ecstatic to see someone who looks like me excelling at such a level. But even if Lin were black, he’d be a bona fide superstar. The man is just damn good.
The Asian market is huge for the NBA. When I taught a class in China, I noticed that every boy in my class loved to play basketball. The craving for basketball in China even exceeded what I see in “the hood.” Given that China has a billion paying fans who are deeply committed to the game, it only makes sense that Lin would become a marketing phenomenon.
Jeremy Lin’s story also connects to the underdog. Inexplicably, this amazing player rotted away on the bench for years before someone gave him his chance. His story is a testament to the value of hard work and perseverance. You don’t have to be Asian to appreciate that one.
Floyd Mayweather Jr. has to face the facts: every fan enjoys seeing athletes who mirror their experiences. Black folks cheered for the first black baseball, basketball and football players, so there is nothing wrong with the world cheering for Jerry Lin. He’s a great player, a cash cow for the NBA and an inspiration to everyone who had to fight to get an opportunity. Leave the brother alone.
