The ACT: a Crossover to Greatness

If you’ve scrolled through sports social media lately, you might’ve caught it — a clip of NBA stars Derrick White, Tyrese Haliburton, and Luke Kornet joking about their ACT scores. 

“What’d you get on the ACT?” Haliburton grins. 
Kornet answers, “34.” 
Derrick White laughs and proudly responds, “Mo Bamba got a 35!” 

Watch the Clips:

It’s quick, funny, and totally unexpected. But beneath the laughs, it’s a golden moment for those of us in counseling and college access work. Why? Because it reminds students — and families — that readiness, effort, and confidence travel far beyond a single test day. 

What this moment tells us 

Even in a locker room full of professional athletes, the ACT finds its way into the conversation. And that’s the point: 

1. Academic preparation travels. 
   The same habits that help an NBA player master a crossover — discipline, repetition, and feedback — are the ones that help students succeed on test day. Achievement doesn’t live in one arena. 
2. Scores spark stories. 
   When high-profile figures can casually talk about test scores, it signals to students that the ACT isn’t something to fear — it’s something to talk about. It normalizes the experience and opens the door to reflection instead of anxiety. 
3. Readiness is a mindset. 
   A good score is nice, but showing up prepared is what lasts. It’s the quiet confidence that says, “I’ve put in the work, and I’m ready for what’s next.” 

How counselors can use this moment 

Sometimes, it just takes a spark — a clip, a quote, a shared laugh — to make college readiness feel a little more real. Here are a few ways to use this one: 

• Break the ice. Start a class visit or parent night by playing the clip. Ask students, “What do you notice about how they talk about testing?” It immediately lowers the tension. 
• Normalize the talk. When NBA players can joke about their scores, it’s easier for students to ask, “What’s a good ACT goal for me?” Use it as a way to shift the tone from pressure to preparation. 
• Engage families. Encourage parents to watch the clip with their teens and ask: “What’s one thing you’re proud you’ve prepared for lately?” It’s an easy bridge from sports to life skills. 

Message to share with families 

“Even NBA players remember their test days! The ACT isn’t just about a number — it’s about focus, effort, and showing up when it matters most. Let’s celebrate preparation as much as performance.” 

The counselor’s takeaway 

Cultural moments like this one are small but mighty reminders that students connect with authenticity. 

When they see someone like Tyrese Haliburton casually reference the ACT, it reframes the narrative — from stress to story, from test day to training day. 

So the next time a student says, “I’m not a test person,” try this: show them the clip, smile, and say, 

“Neither was Tyrese Haliburton… until he showed up prepared.”