The Next Generation: Kiyan Anthony's Journey in High School Basketball
Kiyan Anthony, the son of NBA legend Carmelo Anthony, is quickly making a name for himself in the world of high school basketball. Standing tall at 6-foot-5, Kiyan is already showing the prowess that could take him far in the sport. Currently attending Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York, he is rated as a four-star recruit and the No. 36 prospect in the 2025 rankings.
Balancing Legacy and Individuality
Despite the inevitable comparisons to his father, who led Syracuse to a national championship in 2003 and has a basketball facility named after him on the Syracuse campus due to his generous contributions, Kiyan is determined to carve out his own path. "My father never pushes me to go to Syracuse just because his name is on the gym," Kiyan shared. "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's list of potential colleges includes prestigious programs like Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and, of course, Syracuse. Despite the pressure to follow in his father's footsteps, 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.
Support System and Family Influence
While Carmelo Anthony's influence is undeniable, it is Kiyan's mother who plays a critical role in his development, both on and off the court. "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. "When I'm going through something or I need somebody to talk to, my mom is definitely the person."
His mother's encouragement extends beyond emotional support. "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," Kiyan added. This well-rounded support system is crucial for Kiyan as he navigates the complexities of his burgeoning career and the expectations that come with being Carmelo Anthony's son.
Maintaining Friendships and Making Decisions
Despite the benefits of growing up in a high-profile household, Kiyan remains grounded. "My friends maybe not having the same opportunities as I have, I'm the one that's tried to bring them along with me," he said. "I don't want to make them feel left out." This perspective speaks volumes about Kiyan's character and his desire to remain connected to those who have been a part of his journey.
As for his future, Kiyan is still in the process of making his final decision about where to play college basketball. "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. Regardless of which college Kiyan chooses, it is clear that his decision will be well-informed and supported by his family.
Looking Ahead
Kiyan's commitment to making the right decision for himself is evident. "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.
The young athlete's journey is just beginning, but it's already evident that Kiyan Anthony is not merely riding on his father's coattails. With his talent, work ethic, and the strong support system around him, he is poised to create his own legacy in the basketball world.