Kiyan Anthony, a name that's quickly becoming a staple in high school basketball conversations, is making headlines not just for his pedigree but for his undeniable talent on the court. Standing tall at 6-foot-5, the young prospect from Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York, is already turning heads with his game rightfully earning him a place as a four-star recruit and the No. 36 prospect in the 2025 rankings.
But being the son of an NBA legend can have its own pressures. Kiyan is the prodigious son of Carmelo Anthony, a player who famously led Syracuse University to the 2003 national championship as a freshman and has since contributed significantly to their basketball facility, which proudly bears his name.
Choosing His Path
Despite the legacy, Kiyan Anthony is determined to carve out his own path in the world of basketball. "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," he shared, emphasizing the freedom his father gives him in making his own choices. "I've just got to make my own decision at the end of the day."
Kiyan's decision-making process involves careful consideration of various factors, including the coaching staff and the team dynamic. "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. He has listed Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and Syracuse as potential colleges, indicating a thoughtful approach to his future.
The Role of Family
Throughout this journey, Kiyan's family remains central to his support system, particularly his mother, who he credits for keeping him grounded and focused. "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," he said. "Like, when I'm going through something or I need somebody to talk to, my mom is definitely the person." Her influence extends beyond just emotional support, pushing him to excel academically and athletically. "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," he added.
Father Carmelo Anthony, despite the public's fervent hope that Kiyan follows in his footsteps to Syracuse, remains a supportive yet non-imposing figure. Reflecting on his father's stance, Kiyan emphasized, "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."
A Bright Future
On the court, Kiyan is already showcasing his potential. In April, he scored an impressive 15 points at Rucker Park, an iconic venue that has seen many basketball legends. Moments like these further cement his growing reputation as a rising star in high school basketball.
As Kiyan continues to navigate his journey, he remains grounded and considerate of those around him, particularly 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," he noted, showing his awareness and sensitivity to the differences in their experiences. "I don't want to make them feel left out."
In the coming months, Kiyan will finish his college visits and ultimately make the decision that best fits his aspirations, relying heavily on the advice of his parents. "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 remarked.
With a strong support system, immense talent, and a grounded perspective, Kiyan Anthony is not only set to make a name for himself in basketball but also to carry forth a legacy uniquely his own.