So, let’s see this set of facts and see if it comports with what you are saying.
1) Tweet goes out thanking DM from random internet guy.
2) Utah media picks it up.
3) DM (with a huge twitter following) responds to guy saying no big deal.
4) National media picks it up.
5) DM is a kid from the area, regardless of father’s affiliation.
6) DM is runner-up ROY
7) DM is really good at basketball
8) Actions taken by DM were really nice.
This has the makings of a viral story that would have been picked up regardless. It ain’t his Dad building it. It ain’t grooming for New York. It’s a story that was fueled by the viral nature of the internet.