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Bay Area Excited Over Sudden Rise Of Jeremy Lin

PALO ALTO (KCBS) – The sudden emergence of Jeremy Lin on the NBA scene has caused a stir across the country and brought a great amount of pride among those in the Bay Area who know him well.

Fans are calling it "Linsanity" as the Palo Alto High School graduate has been the talk of the sports world. He became the starting point guard of the New York Knicks earlier this month and has posted amazing stats since, all while leading them to an undefeated record in games he has started.

KCBS' Chris Filippi Reports:

The ride has been a thrill for those on the Peninsula who remember Lin as a teenager.

"He's down to earth. He loves his family and he loves our church," said Pastor Stephen Chen with the Chinese Church in Christ in Mountain View. "Our church is like his second family."

Chen was a youth counselor for Lin when he was in the eighth and ninth grade. He said he's not surprised when Lin refers to his faith when talking about his NBA success.

"All these things are a gift from God and Grace being God's riches at Christ's expense," said Chen. "You're thankful for almost everything that comes your way, it keeps you from being proud. To remember who you are before God, it keeps you humble."

Chen said that everyone at his church has become fans of the Knicks after Lin was cut by the Golden State Warriors after finding little success with the hometown team in his first season.

Related Coverage:
Photo Gallery – It's Linsanity
Lin Has 13 Assists, Knicks Extend Win Streak To 7

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