News Summary

Taylen Kinney, a 17-year-old basketball phenom from Naperville, is taking social media by storm. Known as ‘Mr. 6-7’, he has gained immense popularity through viral trends and impressive skills. With a remarkable high school career and significant college interest, Taylen is also launching a canned water brand, highlighting his influence beyond the court. This article explores his journey, family support, and future in the basketball world.

Naperville’s Own Taylen Kinney: The 17-Year-Old Basketball Sensation Taking the Internet by Storm

In the vibrant city of Naperville, 17-year-old basketball whiz Taylen Kinney has taken the world by storm, capturing hearts and attention far beyond the basketball court. Known affectionately as “Mr. 6-7,” Taylen has made a name for himself not just as an athlete, but as a social media icon, boasting over a million followers on TikTok and Instagram. But what’s behind this curious nickname and the whirlwind fame?

The Birth of “Mr. 6-7”

The rise of Taylen Kinney can be credited to a catchy rap lyric from the song “Doot Doot (6-7)” by Skrilla, released in December 2024, which sparked a viral trend. This catchy phrase has become more than just a lyric; it has spiraled into a viral meme embraced by Generation Alpha and Generation Z alike. Kinney’s humorous response during a Starbucks ranking video, where he simply said “six, seven,” set the internet ablaze, leading his social media team to seize the moment and amplify his new persona. Who knew two simple numbers could become a slang phenomenon with no definitive meaning yet resonate widely?

The Support of Family

Behind this remarkable teenager is a foundation of family support. His grandfather, Randy Gearding, might not fully grasp the meme’s significance, but Taylen’s mother, Mikelle, plays a vital role, often going the extra mile – literally – to witness her son’s games. High school basketball is a family affair, and with the dedication they show, one can see how Taylen developed his love for the sport from a young age.

Early Basketball Dreams

Taylen showcased his basketball talent as a child, famously scoring 54 points in a single game wearing a fresh pair of Jordan 11s. Although he initially dabbled in football and baseball, his heart ultimately belonged to the basketball court. Now, playing full-time, he has joined Overtime Elite (OTE) to hone his skills and take his game to the next level. It’s paying off too, as he averaged a remarkable 20.1 points, 5.0 assists, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.3 steals last season!

The Rise to Stardom

Recognized as the No. 17 player in the 2026 basketball class by the 247Sports Composite, Taylen has attracted attention from major college programs including Kentucky, Louisville, Indiana, and more. With his impressive skills and height (standing 6 feet 3 inches tall), it’s no wonder why schools are eager to offer him scholarships. He’s currently working diligently, spending around five hours each day on training while only dedicating 15 minutes to maintaining his social media presence.

From Memes to Merchandise

The “6-7” phenomenon has extended to merchandise with Taylen’s recent launch of a canned water brand—yes, you heard that right! This trendy beverage has become a hot topic, amassing a waitlist and thousands of followers on Instagram, establishing Taylen’s unique identity beyond basketball. With Kinney making waves in various sports contexts, from NBA highlights to WNBA press conferences, it’s evident that “6-7” is more than just a punchline; it’s a cultural touchstone!

The Future of Mr. 6-7

As Taylen Kinney approaches critical decisions regarding his college fate, with several university visits on the horizon, the basketball world—and his young fans—are eagerly anticipating what’s next for this emerging star. With an ideal playing style featuring fast-paced gameplay and a knack for ball screens, Taylen is ready to move forward, leaving a trail of inspiration for young athletes who have started playing thanks to his influence.

So, as this teenage sensation from Naperville continues to ride the wave of fame, we can only wonder how far this journey will take him. For now, Tavlen Kinney isn’t just making headlines—he’s redefining what it means to connect with the next generation through basketball and beyond!

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