Jeremy Lin had to convince a Hornets official that he played for the team

There was a time, back in 2012, when Jeremy Lin was one of basketball's most recognizable faces.

In 2015, however, "Linsanity" now feels like it was a lifetime ago.

After a rather disappointing season with the Los Angeles Lakers, Lin inked a two-year, $4.1 million contract with the Charlotte Hornets this summer. Given Lin's quality, it was a shrewd, under-the-radar signing for Charlotte, who needed a replacement for outgoing point guard Mo Williams.

It was so under-the-radar, apparently, that the news was even lost on some members of the Hornets' security staff.

Ironically, Lin made a spoof video earlier this summer that saw him go undercover in Asia, where he remains a celebrity. Evidently, he didn't even need the fake beard and fat suit to blend into the background in Charlotte.

If Lin manages to resurrect his career in Charlotte, however, perhaps that universal recognition will return.

Lin averaged 11.2 points, 2.6 rebounds and 4.6 assists in 25.8 minutes per game over 74 games last season. He's expected to serve as the Hornets' back-up to starter Kemba Walker, while also occasionally serving as a combo guard alongside him.