Jeremy Lin Dreadlocks: The Story, Meaning & Cultural Impact Behind His Hairstyle

When Jeremy Lin appeared with dreadlocks, it wasn’t just a new hairstyle — it became a spark for deeper conversations about identity, culture, and race. Known for his humble nature and bold self-expression, Lin’s decision to wear dreadlocks caught the world’s attention not because of how it looked, but because of what it represented.

The topic of Jeremy Lin dreadlocks quickly went beyond basketball courts. Fans, fellow players, and cultural commentators began to ask questions: Why did Jeremy Lin get dreadlocks? Was it cultural appreciation or appropriation? His hairstyle became a window into a larger discussion about respect, diversity, and understanding in sports and society.

In this article, we’ll explore how Jeremy Lin started his dreadlocks, what inspired the look, and how his thoughtful response to criticism — especially the remarks from Kenyon Martin — turned a personal style choice into a meaningful cultural moment. We’ll also look at how social media, Reddit, and news outlets covered his transformation, what dreadlocks mean historically, and how Lin’s openness helped many people rethink how culture and identity intersect.

As a dreadlocks expert who understands both the technical side of locs and the cultural sensitivity behind them, I’ll guide you through the facts, the background, and the lessons this story offers. Every detail shared here is based on credible interviews, Lin’s own essays, and well-documented reports — ensuring you get a clear, trustworthy, and insightful picture of the man behind the hairstyle.

1. Jeremy Lin’s Hair Journey: From Braids to Dreadlocks

1.1 Early Styles and Experimentation

Before the world saw Jeremy Lin dreadlocks, fans had already noticed his growing interest in experimenting with different hairstyles. During his time with the Charlotte Hornets, Lin started wearing cornrows and braids, marking the beginning of his journey into cultural expression through hair.

In an open letter titled “So … About My Hair” published on The Players’ Tribune, Lin explained that these experiments weren’t about copying anyone — they were about stepping outside his comfort zone. For Lin, hair was a form of creativity, a way to connect with people of different backgrounds, and to learn from cultures beyond his own.

He even mentioned that teammates like DeMarre Carroll and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson encouraged him to try new styles. What started as simple braids evolved into something more expressive — a set of dreadlocks that would later become a symbol of conversation, curiosity, and cross-cultural dialogue in the NBA.

1.2 How Did Jeremy Lin Start His Dreadlocks?

The process of creating dreadlocks isn’t just about appearance — it’s about patience, care, and understanding the texture and behavior of hair. Lin’s stylist worked carefully to section, twist, and palm-roll his hair into locs, a process that takes time and regular maintenance.

He shared that it wasn’t a sudden decision; it grew naturally from months of curiosity and learning. “Every hairstyle has a story,” Lin said, noting how his teammates inspired him and how he wanted to respect the culture behind the look.

His dreadlocks became a visual marker of transformation — from an athlete known for “Linsanity” to a man embracing cultural diversity with humility.

Lin also acknowledged that he understood the cultural weight behind dreadlocks. Instead of wearing them just for fashion, he approached the style with a sense of appreciation and responsibility, which set the tone for how he later handled the public’s reaction.

2. Public Reaction & Controversy

2.1 Kenyon Martin’s Remarks and the Backlash

When Jeremy Lin first stepped onto the court with dreadlocks, not everyone understood his intention. Former NBA player Kenyon Martin publicly criticized Lin in a social media video, suggesting that Lin was trying to “be black” by wearing dreadlocks. Martin’s comment quickly went viral, sparking debate about cultural appropriation, racial identity, and respect within the basketball community.

Instead of responding with anger, Lin took a thoughtful approach. In a calm and respectful post on Instagram, he thanked Martin for bringing up the topic and pointed out that Martin himself had Chinese tattoos on his arms. Lin’s message wasn’t meant to shame but to highlight a deeper truth — cultural exchange can be meaningful when done with understanding and respect.

His response earned widespread praise. Many fans and commentators admired his maturity, noting that he turned a potentially heated conflict into an opportunity for open dialogue about culture and representation. Shortly after, Kenyon Martin personally reached out to Lin to apologize, clarifying that he didn’t intend to offend him. Lin accepted graciously, showing the world how empathy can resolve cultural misunderstandings.

2.2 Social Media Reactions and Public Debate

The discussion didn’t stop there. On Twitter, the “Jeremy Lin dreads tweet” began trending as thousands of people voiced opinions — some supporting Lin’s expression, others questioning cultural lines. On Reddit, fans analyzed both Lin’s and Martin’s perspectives, debating whether hairstyles should be viewed as personal choice or cultural symbols.

Major outlets like ESPN, Business Insider, and Refinery29 published stories about the incident, focusing on Lin’s calm response and his commitment to cultural appreciation over appropriation. His essay on The Players’ Tribune became a powerful reference point for how public figures can address sensitive topics with grace and authenticity.

This moment also showed how hairstyles can carry deep cultural meaning — especially when worn by someone from a different background. Lin’s willingness to listen, learn, and respond with kindness helped change the tone of the conversation from confrontation to understanding.

3. Cultural & Ethical Dimensions of Dreadlocks

3.1 Historical roots & who wore dreadlocks first

Origins across cultures. Locked hair is ancient and multi-cultural: archaeological and textual evidence ties locked styles to peoples across Africa (including Ethiopian Christian traditions), later to the Rastafari movement in Jamaica (1930s), and to ascetic strands in South Asia (Hindu sadhus). Rather than a single “inventor,” locs emerged independently as spiritual, cultural, and practical expressions in different places and eras.

Misconceptions & overgeneralizations. A common mistake is to treat dreadlocks as belonging exclusively to one culture or religion. Scholarship and encyclopedic references show a plural origin story, with meanings that shift by context—faith, resistance, identity, or simply aesthetics—so blanket claims about “who wore dreadlocks first” oversimplify a broad human practice.

3.2 Cultural appropriation vs cultural appreciation

How scholars frame it. Ethicists and sociologists often distinguish appropriation (borrowing divorced from context, power awareness, or benefit-sharing) from appreciation (learning, crediting sources, engaging communities, and acknowledging power dynamics). In sport and pop culture, they urge moving conversations from “can you wear it?” to “how and why are you wearing it?”—with openness to uncomfortable dialogue.

How Jeremy Lin addressed it. Lin publicly explained that his locs came from months of conversations with Black teammates and staff about the process, pain, and upkeep—framing his hair choice as an act of learning and appreciation, not mimicry. He reiterated this in his essay “So … About My Hair,” and in his widely noted response to Kenyon Martin, which highlighted reciprocity in cultural exchange (e.g., Martin’s Chinese-character tattoos) while keeping the tone respectful.

Arguments on both sides.

• Critics argued an Asian American star wearing locs could read as appropriation, because Black hair has been policed and penalized historically. Media commentary reflected that concern.
• Defenders pointed to Lin’s documented intention, credit, and engagement with Black teammates, plus his call for minority-to-minority solidarity and dialogue, seeing this as appreciation done thoughtfully.

3.3 Identity, race, and minority experience

Hair, selfhood, and sport. For many athletes from marginalized groups, hair is a visible marker of identity and belonging—and also a flashpoint for stereotyping or gatekeeping. Lin’s case shows how a personal style choice can become a stage for race, representation, and power conversations far beyond fashion.

“Walking in another person’s shoes.” Lin explicitly described trying to empathize across cultures—to understand, not just adopt—an idea summarized by NetsDaily’s reading of his essay: the difference between “not caring what people think” and trying to walk around in another person’s shoes.

Risk and courage. Lin absorbed criticism without escalation, kept the discussion public and educational, and later shared that Martin reached out and apologized—a resolution many praised for modeling grace under scrutiny and a constructive path through cultural friction.

4. Hairstyle & Style Variations

4.1 Jeremy Lin’s Dreadlock Styles Over Time

As Jeremy Lin’s locs matured, his style evolved through several distinct looks — each reflecting both personal growth and creative flair. Early on, Lin sported short, tightly coiled dreadlocks, giving his hairstyle a clean, athletic look suited for intense NBA gameplay. Over time, his locs grew longer, and he began experimenting with different shapes and patterns, including the now-famous “Jeremy Lin mohawk” — a fusion of dreadlocks gathered along the crown while the sides were closely faded.

This mohawk loc style became one of Lin’s most recognizable looks during his time with the Brooklyn Nets. Media outlets and fans frequently highlighted it on social platforms, comparing it to both traditional mohawks and Afro-Caribbean dread variations. Through these phases, Lin demonstrated that dreadlocks can be versatile, expressive, and adaptable, even within professional sports where appearance is often scrutinized.

Even after trimming or restyling, Lin’s commitment to cultural respect and his appreciation for the artistry of locs remained visible. His hair journey reflected not just fashion but a continuing dialogue about diversity and self-expression in modern athletics.

4.2 Styling Tips & Challenges for High-Performance Athletes

Maintaining dreadlocks as a professional athlete is no easy task. Constant sweat, friction from headbands or helmets, and rapid movement can affect both scalp health and loc durability. Jeremy Lin’s consistent grooming and style maintenance offer valuable lessons for anyone balancing dread care with an active lifestyle.

Key challenges and care practices include:

• Managing sweat and buildup: After each game or workout, Lin likely followed a routine using a residue-free clarifying shampoo to prevent buildup and odor. Clean locs are essential to maintaining both hygiene and neat appearance.
• Retwisting and maintenance: Frequent retwisting helps prevent locs from tangling or merging unintentionally, especially when subjected to high movement and physical contact.
• Scalp care: Athletes often experience dryness due to sweat and frequent washing. Using light oils such as jojoba or argan helps maintain moisture without weighing down the hair.
• Protective styling: During training or travel, tying locs back or using a dread cap or silk wrap can reduce friction and breakage.

Lessons from Lin’s approach: Jeremy Lin showed that dreadlocks can coexist with a demanding sports career if maintained with discipline and respect. His look was more than aesthetic — it represented balance between performance, self-expression, and cultural mindfulness. For many fans and players, his example proved that embracing a new style can be done thoughtfully, even under the spotlight of global attention.

5. Legacy, Perception & Influence

5.1 Did the Fate of His Dreadlocks Affect His Image?

When Jeremy Lin appeared with dreadlocks, the media reaction was immediate — and mixed. Some sports outlets focused on the visual change, treating it as a bold fashion move, while others analyzed it as a statement of cross-cultural identity. Before the dreadlocks, Lin’s image was largely tied to the clean-cut underdog from the Linsanity era — a Harvard-educated player who defied stereotypes about Asian athletes.

With dreadlocks, Lin’s public image expanded. He was no longer just a breakout basketball story; he became a symbol of cultural dialogue and openness. The hairstyle gave him an edgier, more mature look, reflecting both personal confidence and curiosity. While a few critics saw it as a risky move, most fans appreciated the authenticity behind it — especially after his thoughtful explanation in The Players’ Tribune.

As for endorsements and representation, Lin’s brand remained authentic and positive. In fact, many supporters praised him for handling cultural discussions with grace, turning what could have been controversy into an example of leadership and empathy. For Asian-American fans, seeing Lin handle such a public cultural exchange with dignity helped solidify his image as a bridge-builder — someone who represented inclusion beyond sports.

5.2 Influence on NBA Culture & Asian-American Athletes

Jeremy Lin’s decision to wear dreadlocks had a ripple effect in the NBA and beyond. His courage to explore a hairstyle deeply rooted in Black culture opened space for new conversations about identity and representation in professional sports.

While not many players directly copied his look, Lin’s openness helped challenge the idea that athletes — particularly Asian-Americans — needed to “fit” a certain image. He showed that identity is complex, fluid, and worth exploring. Lin’s thoughtful handling of the backlash became a teaching moment, not just for fans, but also for other athletes navigating cultural expression.

For many in the Asian-American community, Lin’s journey represented progress. It showed that engaging with another culture doesn’t have to be shallow or offensive if it’s done with humility and awareness. His example encouraged young athletes to express themselves freely while still respecting the roots of the styles or traditions they admire.

In this way, Lin quietly shifted NBA culture — moving it toward more empathy and openness, where cultural borrowing can lead to understanding rather than division.

5.3 Ongoing Relevance & What Happened Afterward

As of 2025, Jeremy Lin no longer wears dreadlocks. Over the years, his hairstyles have continued to change — from cropped cuts to natural waves — each reflecting a new chapter in his life after his NBA career and during his time playing internationally. Yet the memory of his dreadlocks still resonates.

That hairstyle, and the discussion it sparked, became part of Lin’s broader legacy beyond basketball. It represents his willingness to ask questions that many avoid, and his ability to turn criticism into connection. In interviews since, Lin has often emphasized the value of learning from others and celebrating cultural differences — lessons that transcend any hairstyle.

Today, when people recall “Jeremy Lin dreadlocks,” they’re not just talking about hair. They’re remembering a moment when a player used style as a tool for empathy, growth, and unity. His dreadlocks may be gone, but their message — that curiosity and respect can coexist — remains one of the most meaningful parts of his story.

Conclusion

Jeremy Lin’s dreadlocks were never just a hairstyle — they became a symbol of dialogue, humility, and respect. Through his decision to wear dreadlocks, Lin opened a global conversation about cultural identity, representation, and understanding. Instead of reacting defensively to criticism, he used his platform to bridge cultures, showing that learning from others can be both respectful and enriching. His calm and thoughtful response to the Kenyon Martin controversy set an example for how public figures can handle cultural discussions with empathy and maturity.

Even years later, the phrase “Jeremy Lin dreadlocks” continues to represent something deeper than appearance. It stands for the courage to explore, the willingness to listen, and the belief that connection matters more than criticism. Lin’s story reminds us that identity is not fixed — it evolves through experiences, conversations, and the respect we show to others. His journey proved that embracing diversity, when done with sincerity, can turn even a simple style choice into a lasting lesson in humanity.

FAQs About Jeremy Lin Dreadlocks

1. Why did Jeremy Lin get dreadlocks?
   Jeremy Lin decided to get dreadlocks as part of his journey to step outside his comfort zone and connect more deeply with different cultures. In his essay “So … About My Hair” on The Players’ Tribune, Lin explained that his choice was about learning and appreciating the significance of dreadlocks, not copying or mocking. He discussed the style with Black teammates and approached it with genuine respect for its cultural roots.
2. How did Jeremy Lin get dreadlocks?
   Lin’s dreadlocks were formed through a gradual process of twisting, palm-rolling, and maintenance — similar to traditional loc formation techniques. He worked with professional stylists and took advice from teammates who already had locs. Lin emphasized that it wasn’t a sudden fashion choice but a thoughtful transformation that developed over time, guided by curiosity and understanding.
3. Who wore dreadlocks first in history?
   Dreadlocks have existed across multiple ancient cultures, not just one. They appear in African, Hindu, and even early European civilizations. Ancient Egyptians, Ethiopian monks, Hindu sadhus, and later Rastafarians all wore versions of locs for spiritual, cultural, or symbolic reasons. The style’s history shows that it’s a shared human expression, not owned by any single group.
4. What ethnicity is Jeremy Lin?
   Jeremy Lin is Taiwanese-American. He was born in California to parents who immigrated from Taiwan. Lin often speaks about his experiences as an Asian-American in professional basketball — a space where Asian representation has been rare. His cultural background has shaped his perspective on diversity and the way he approaches conversations about identity.
5. Does Jay-Z have dreadlocks?
   Yes, Jay-Z has been wearing freeform dreadlocks in recent years. His natural locs, which he’s grown without heavy manipulation, symbolize creativity and individuality. Jay-Z’s style has also helped bring renewed visibility to dreadlocks in mainstream media, much like Jeremy Lin’s hairstyle did in the world of sports — both showing how personal expression can open conversations about culture and authenticity.

Disclaimer:
This article about Jeremy Lin’s dreadlocks is for informational purposes only. It promotes cultural understanding and respect, not controversy, and uses public information responsibly.