Jeremy Lin named as 2012 TIME “The Most Influential People in the World” joining Bi Rain and Tim Tebow

Jeremy Lin has been named Time’s most influential person in the world. Also on the list is quarterback Tim Tebow. Lin joins Korean pop star Bi (Rain) as asian males who have been named the most influential person in the world. Bi (Rain) was named in 2009.

The Jeremy Lin story is a great lesson for kids everywhere because it debunks and defangs so many of the prejudices and stereotypes that unfairly hold children back.

He has dispelled the idea that Asian-American guards somehow couldn’t hack it in the NBA — and that being a world-class athlete on the court is somehow at odds with being an excellent student off the court.

Contrary to what you might read, Jeremy, 23, is no overnight sensation. In fact, he achieved success the old-fashioned way: he earned it. He worked hard and stayed humble. He lives the right way; he plays the right way.

Its great to see good values rewarded in professional sports because thats not always the case. Often its the bling, the glam, the individual that gets celebrated — not the team and working together to advance a goal bigger than oneself. Jeremy cares only about one thing — winning.

And I dont care whether you are an Asian-American kid, white, black or Hispanic, Jeremys story tells you that if you show grit, discipline and integrity, you too can get an opportunity to overcome the odds.

via Jeremy Lin – 2012 TIME 100: The Most Influential People in the World – TIME.