What's Happening?
Taylen Kinney, a five-star basketball recruit, has inadvertently started a viral trend on TikTok known as '6-7'. The trend began when Kinney, who plays in the Overtime Elite prep basketball league, used the numbers 'six, seven' in a video where he was asked to rank his Starbucks drink. The hand motion he made, indicating indecision between six or seven, caught on and has since been incorporated into various social media videos. The Athletic's Lindsay Schnell reports that the trend doesn't have a specific meaning but has become a meme, symbolizing indifference or whatever the user interprets it to be. The trend has gained significant traction, with merchandise like shirts and water bottles now available, and even sports commentator Jim Nantz referenced it during an NFL broadcast.
Why It's Important?
The '6-7' trend highlights the power of social media in shaping cultural phenomena, especially among younger audiences. It underscores how seemingly trivial actions can gain massive popularity and influence, transcending their original context. For Taylen Kinney, this trend has brought additional attention to his basketball career, potentially impacting his public image and marketability. The trend also reflects the evolving nature of internet culture, where the meaning of content is often secondary to its viral potential. This phenomenon can have broader implications for how athletes and public figures engage with their audiences, leveraging social media to enhance their personal brands.
What's Next?
Taylen Kinney is expected to announce his college basketball commitment on September 28, with Kentucky, Louisville, Kansas, Oregon, Arkansas, and Indiana as his final choices. As the '6-7' trend continues to grow, it may influence how Kinney is perceived by fans and recruiters, potentially affecting his future opportunities both on and off the court. The trend's ongoing popularity could also lead to further commercial opportunities for Kinney, as brands may seek to capitalize on his viral fame.
Beyond the Headlines
The '6-7' trend raises questions about the nature of internet fame and its impact on young athletes. It highlights the blurred lines between personal expression and public persona in the digital age. As trends like these gain momentum, they can shape the cultural landscape, influencing how individuals communicate and connect. This phenomenon also points to the potential for social media to democratize fame, allowing individuals to gain recognition outside traditional media channels.
