NBA: 30 NBA players you forgot acted in movies or TV shows – Kevin Garnett
Kevin Garnett was the front-runner for the prep-to-pro generation, going straight from high school to the NBA. He was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves and established himself as not only the best player in franchise history (at the time and since), but one of the league’s very best, including an MVP award in 2004.
While with the Timberwolves Garnett made a special appearance, not on the court but on the television screen. He had a guest appearance on The Jamie Foxx show, complete with comedian and actress Sherri Shepherd contemplating the benefits of a man with hands “large enough to palm a basketball” and multiple characters making fun of the unpronounceable last name of fellow Timberwolves All-Star Wally Szczerbiak.
Garnett didn’t appear back on the screen again for some time, instead focusing on winning a championship with the Boston Celtics and otherwise finishing his career. Since retiring, however, he has been more active, including an unexpected role in an unexpected film.
In Uncut Gems, Adam Sandler is a New York City jeweler who has to find a valuable gem to pay off his gambling debts. It’s a legitimate crime thriller, not a comedy, an unexpected turn for Sandler. Also unexpected was the appearance of Kevin Garnett, who came in showing off his championship ring as a customer of Sandler’s character.
Garnett’s intense demeanor on the court is driven by his passion and drive, and those can come through in an acting performance as well. It would not be a surprise to see Garnett appear again in an acting role.