“Kenny walkin like he Big OG": Hoops fans react to former NBA champ Kenny Smith helping high school hooper win a dunk contest

Kenny Smith, the two-time NBA champion and beloved "Inside the NBA" co-host, proved that he is still celebrated even beyond the studio when he recently helped a high school basketball player win a dunk contest. The event occurred at the Desert Holiday Classic in Rancho Mirage, California, where Smith's impromptu mentorship made an unforgettable moment for fans and players.

Smith was at the tournament to watch his son compete, but the spotlight shifted when high school player Darnell Wyatt struggled to complete an ambitious dunk attempt during the contest. Wyatt’s plan was bold: He wanted to bounce the ball between his legs, off the backboard and finish with a thunderous slam. However, after multiple failed attempts, his chances of winning seemed to be slipping away.

That’s when Smith stepped in. Dubbed "The Jet" during his playing days for his speed on the court, Smith walked onto the floor with the confidence of a seasoned veteran. He offered Wyatt some much-needed advice and repositioned him at the free-throw line, showing him how to perfect the setup.

Kenny Smith’s guidance leads to winning dunk and loud fan reactions

With the encouragement and tips from Smith, Wyatt nailed the dunk, much to the delight of the crowd. The gym erupted in cheers, and Wyatt walked away as the contest’s winner. Fans and social media users praised Smith for taking the time to support a young player, with one comment jokingly describing him as:

“He walkin’ like he Big OG.”

The phrase, a playful nod to Smith's larger-than-life presence and swagger, encapsulated the respect and admiration fans have for the former NBA guard.

The moment didn’t just highlight Wyatt’s athleticism; it underscored Smith’s role as a mentor and ambassador for the game. Basketball enthusiasts online celebrated his contribution, with many pointing out how rare it is for a star of Smith’s caliber to engage so deeply with grassroots basketball events.

One fan wrote:

“Kenny Smith just proved why he’s a real one. Not every day you see an NBA champ helping a high school kid shine on a big stage.”

Another commented:

“Kenny walking like he’s Big OG and delivering wisdom at the same time. Legend.”

Kenny Smith's mentorship and giving back is his enduring love for the game

Kenny Smith is no stranger to dunk contests. In his third year in the league, he made it to the finals of the NBA Slam Dunk Contest. He participated during the 1990 and 1993 competitions, thrilling fans with his explosive athleticism and cemented his reputation as one of the league’s most exciting guards. While he didn’t take home the title, his standout performance left no doubt that he belonged among the NBA’s top dunkers.

While his playing days are long behind him, his commitment to nurturing talent remains strong. His involvement at the Desert Holiday Classic not only inspired Wyatt but also highlighted how important moments of mentorship can be in shaping a young athlete’s confidence and career. Wyatt said:

"That was pretty amazing."

In which he added:

"It was definitely a cool moment."

By stepping in to help Wyatt, Smith not only enhanced the moment but also served as a reminder of the profound impact basketball legends can have beyond the court. Fans and players alike left the event with a deeper appreciation for Smith's dedication to growing the game.

The Desert Holiday Classic will undoubtedly remember this year’s dunk contest, not just for Wyatt’s winning dunk, but for the way Kenny Smith stepped up —proving once again that legends of the game never stop giving back.