“The United States will be powerfully supporting those industries, like Airlines and others, that are particularly affected by the Chinese Virus. We will be stronger than ever before!” he wrote.

Lin, who has been on hiatus since the CBA suspended action before the Lunar New Year in January, quoted that tweet with his response.

“I wish you would powerfully support the vulnerable people that will suffer due to our mismanagement of this virus, including those that will be affected by the racism you’re empowering,” Lin replied.

The near 10-year NBA veteran, whose career famously kick-started at the New York Knicks, then had to deal with a number of defences of either the president or the term.

Lin was dismissive of the Twitter user who pointed out that “Every major media outlet called it Wuhan virus before Trump”.

“Can you honestly tell me there is ZERO anti-Chinese sentiment in all his characterisations of the virus? Can you honestly tell me Asians aren't being unfairly physically attacked today in the US?” he wrote.

“Is it that hard to use coronavirus or COVID-19? We playing the blame game in a crisis.”

He also had short time for those who pointed out comparisons with “German measles” and “Spanish flu”.

“And I dont wanna hear about no German measles/Spanish flu bc everyday Asian-Americans inc ppl I know are threatened and physically attacked. I dont give a crap about the history of names rn. What I do know is this subtle anti-Chinese message only empowers more hate towards asians.”

Trump clearly paid no mind to the Harvard educated basketball star’s plea to stop using a term that he first used last year and he has since used it again, including twice today.

“For the people that are now out of work because of the important and necessary containment policies, for instance the shutting down of hotels, bars and restaurants, money will soon be coming to you. The onslaught of the Chinese Virus is not your fault! Will be stronger than ever!” he tweeted.

Then he later used it to foreshadow a news conference: “I will be having a news conference today to discuss very important news from the FDA concerning the Chinese Virus!”

The term has already caused China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to speak out. Foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said, “We urge the US to correct its mistake and stop groundless accusations against China.”

Lin, who is currently in the US has been asked to return to Beijing to meet up with his teammates, according to reports in Chinese media. The CBA season may resume as soon as next month, although it is reported that all remaining games will be played in one or two host cities.