Kiyan Anthony: Forging His Own Path in High School Basketball
The world of high school basketball is witnessing the rise of a new star in Kiyan Anthony, the son of NBA legend Carmelo Anthony. Standing tall at 6-foot-5, Kiyan is making a significant mark on the sport with his exceptional abilities and mature outlook. Currently attending Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York, he is building a name for himself, independent of his father's illustrious legacy.
A Bright Future Ahead
Kiyan Anthony is a four-star recruit, ranked as the No. 36 prospect in the 2025 rankings. His potential colleges include Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and Syracuse. Despite the widespread speculation that he might follow in his father's footsteps to Syracuse, Kiyan maintains that his decision will be based on what feels right for him.
"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," Kiyan explained.
Guidance and Independence
Kiyan recognizes Carmelo Anthony's impact on the basketball world, especially his role in leading Syracuse to the 2003 national championship and his contributions to the university's basketball facility. However, Kiyan emphasizes that his father never pressures him to choose Syracuse solely based on his achievements there.
"[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.
He adds, "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."
Family Support
While Carmelo plays a visible role in Kiyan's life and career, it is his mother who stands out as a significant influence. From pushing him to improve his game to emphasizing the importance of academics, her support is invaluable.
"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 noted. "Like, when I'm going through something or I need somebody to talk to, my mom is definitely the person."
He continues, "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."
Balancing Friendship and Stardom
Despite the spotlight, Kiyan remains grounded. He values his relationships with friends and is mindful of not letting his burgeoning career create a divide.
"My friends maybe not having the same opportunities as I have, I'm the one that's tried to bring them along with me," Kiyan said. "I don't want to make them feel left out."
A Glimpse of his Potential
Kiyan's talents were on full display this past April when he scored 15 points at the legendary Rucker Park. Such performances only reinforce the high expectations surrounding his future in basketball. However, Kiyan is taking his time and making sure every step he takes is thoughtful and well-considered.
"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," he noted.
In a world where lineage and legacy can often dictate one's path, Kiyan Anthony is carving out his own journey. With the support of his family and a clear vision for his future, he is poised to make a significant impact on the world of basketball. The future certainly looks bright for this young star, and the journey to collegiate basketball and beyond is one that fans and scouts alike will be eagerly watching.