Google Pixel Christmas ad features basketball entertainer The Professor as Santa

Hold on to your chimney hats, folks, because Google’s latest Pixel Christmas ad is a festive frenzy of basketball trickery and holiday cheer. Forget reindeer dust and sugar plum fairies, this year Santa’s got skills, and he’s bringing them straight to your screens in the form of YouTube megastar, The Professor.

Yep, you read that right. The basketball entertainer extraordinaire is in his signature street court for a fan challenge in this heartwarming ad.

The Professor challenges all comers to a one-on-one showdown, with the ultimate prize being, you guessed it, a brand new Pixel 8 Pro.

From the get-go, it’s clear this ain’t your average milk-and-cookies Santa. The Professor glides across the court, his ball-handling skills leaving jaws on the floor. He spins, he twirls, he even throws shots that would make Steph Curry jealous. The score ticks relentlessly upwards – 3-0, 5-0, 7-0 – and you start to wonder if anyone can stop him.

But just when you think The Professor has wrapped up the competition like a perfectly tied Christmas ribbon, a glimmer of hope emerges. A brave soul steps up, and challenges Santa to a final shot. The underdog scores, the crowd erupts, and The Professor, true to his sportsmanlike spirit, beams with pride and hands over the coveted Pixel 8 Pro to the fan. Here’ the video of the whole tale:

https://twitter.com/i/status/1739164075257638943

Beyond the individual triumph, Google’s strategic use of collaborations with popular figures like The Professor, Aitana, and even renowned footballer Harry Kane in previous campaigns underscores the company’s commitment to staying relevant and resonating with the newer generation. By fusing technology with the allure of celebrities and sports, Google creates a synergy that captivates a diverse audience.