Jeremy Lin, Craig Smith, and NextShark back new short film about brotherhood, basketball, and mental health

Omeleto is proud to announce the official release of “Ayo, Check Up!”, a heartfelt and hard-hitting basketball short film premiering May 18, 2025. Executive produced by NBA veterans Jeremy Lin and Craig “Rhino” Smith, NextShark founder Benny Luo, and four-time Oscar-qualified filmmaker Sy Huq, and helmed by rising director Nathan Xia, the dramedy explores masculinity, mental health, and the healing power of competition.

The film made its world premiere at the inaugural UNINTERRUPTED Film Festival, powered by LeBron James’ athlete-led media platform and Tribeca, where it was celebrated for its raw authenticity and emotional impact. Since then, “Ayo, Check Up!” has continued its festival run with official selections at Urbanworld Film Festival, San Diego International Film Festival, and Ouray International Festival.

Set on a neighborhood court, the film unpacks the fragile egos, internal battles, and unspoken emotions of everyday men who turn to basketball as an outlet. What starts as a trash-talk-fueled pickup game spirals into something resembling Game 7 of the NBA Finals — with buried frustrations boiling over in a powerful showdown of vulnerability and pride.

Unlike traditional sports films, “Ayo, Check Up!” takes a ground-level approach, capturing the intimacy and intensity of streetball culture. With dynamic cinematography and a visceral flashback sequence, the film redefines what “Ball is Life” can mean — emotionally, mentally, and visually.

Director Nathan Xia was inspired by a personal moment of emotional vulnerability during a real-life game, which sparked a creative vision that drew the attention of high-profile champions of mental health and representation.

“Basketball has always been more than a game for me. It’s where I’ve worked through pressure, pain, and identity. ‘Ayo, Check Up!’ captures how powerful the court can be — not just for competition, but for healing and mental health,” says executive producer Jeremy Lin. “I’m proud to support Nathan as a filmmaker telling stories that matter.”

With a powerhouse production team and support from platforms like UNINTERRUPTED, “Ayo, Check Up!” is more than a sports film — it’s a mirror for modern masculinity, a celebration of community, and a rallying cry for emotional honesty.