Kiyan Anthony, the son of NBA legend Carmelo Anthony, is making waves in the high school basketball scene. Currently attending Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York, Kiyan stands out not just because of his father's illustrious career, but due to his own burgeoning talents on the court. Standing at 6-foot-5, Kiyan has earned a reputation as a four-star recruit and the No. 36 prospect in the 2025 rankings.
A Proud Legacy, But Individual Aspirations
Kiyan acknowledges the impact of his father's legacy, particularly Carmelo Anthony’s remarkable journey with Syracuse University. Carmelo led Syracuse to the 2003 national championship as a freshman and has since contributed significantly to the university, with the basketball facility named in his honor. Yet, Kiyan emphasizes his desire to forge his own path, making it clear that he is not pressured to follow directly in his father's footsteps. "My father never pushes me to go to Syracuse just because his name is on the gym. He did so much at Syracuse. He knows that I'm my own person. I've just got to make my own decision at the end of the day," Kiyan shared, reflecting a maturity beyond his years.
Choosing the Right College
The decision on where to play college basketball weighs heavily on Kiyan's mind. He has listed Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and Syracuse as potential colleges. Despite the public's expectation for him to choose Syracuse, Kiyan remains undecided. "Even though I know basically the whole world wants me to go to Syracuse, I still haven't made the decision yet and I still have to talk to the coaches some more and really get into detail -- like what other players are coming, how they want me to play, how I'll be coached and stuff like that," he explained.
Kiyan values his parents' advice in making this critical decision. While his father's support is well-known, he speaks highly of his mother’s pivotal role in his journey. "I would say everybody sees when the cameras are on [my dad] and then they're on me because I'm playing good, but I would say my mom does a lot more background stuff," Kiyan said. "Like, when I'm going through something or I need somebody to talk to, my mom is definitely the person. And she's the one who really pushes me to get in the gym, even if I don't want to. To go to school and stay on top of my grades and stuff like that."
Facing the Future
The choice of college will not be an easy one, and Kiyan is determined to make a well-informed decision. “So I still have to finish up my visits, and then, ultimately, just make a decision. I will rely on my parents a lot with their advice and how they think a school fits me." Despite the external pressures, Kiyan is committed to a decision that aligns with his personal aspirations and comfort.
During a recent event at the historic Rucker Park in April, Kiyan showcased his skills by scoring 15 points, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star. He has also been conscious of the opportunities he has, often extending support to his friends. "My friends maybe not having the same opportunities as I have, I'm the one that's tried to bring them along with me. I don't want to make them feel left out," Kiyan remarked, showing another side of his character that values camaraderie and inclusiveness.
Looking Beyond the Shadow
Interestingly, while Syracuse remains a significant part of Kiyan’s basketball journey, he is careful not to let it overshadow his independent aspirations. "If it is Syracuse -- I go there a lot and I practice, I work out there -- if it is that, that's what it is. But he's never going to say, 'You gotta go to Syracuse. You gotta go there because I went there.' He's not going to make me follow in his footsteps unless I really want to,” Kiyan emphasized, conveying the respect and freedom his father affords him in choosing his own path.
As Kiyan Anthony navigates the pressures and expectations surrounding his basketball career, it is clear that he is carving out his own identity while respecting the legacy of his father. With his family's support and his own drive, the future looks promising for this young athlete, who is keen on leaving his own mark in the world of basketball.