Kiyan Anthony, the progeny of basketball royalty, is carving his own path on the hardwood. The rising high school basketball phenom is already catching the eyes of college scouts and fans nationwide. Standing tall at 6-foot-5, Kiyan is a four-star recruit and currently ranks as the No. 36 prospect in the class of 2025. His journey is noteworthy not just because of his skills, but due to the massive shadow cast by his father, NBA star Carmelo Anthony.
Emerging Talent
Currently attending Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York, Kiyan has already proven his mettle on some of the sport's most storied courts. In April, he notably scored 15 points at the legendary Rucker Park, further solidifying his reputation as a young player to watch.
Despite the significant expectations placed upon him, Kiyan is deliberate and thoughtful about his choices. He has listed Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and Syracuse as the schools he is considering for his collegiate basketball career. While many anticipate that Kiyan may follow in his father’s footsteps and choose Syracuse, the young Anthony is determined to make his own decision.
Legacy vs. Individuality
The Syracuse connection is undeniable. Carmelo Anthony led the Orange to a national championship in 2003 as a freshman, and his contributions to the program extend beyond the court. Carmelo has generously donated to Syracuse University’s basketball facility, which now bears his name. Yet, as Kiyan explains, his father has not pushed him to choose Syracuse.
"[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. "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."
Family Support
Throughout his journey, Kiyan has had steadfast support from his family, particularly from his mother, who plays a crucial role in his development. "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."
Kiyan’s mother is not just a source of emotional support but also a driving force in his discipline. "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. This balance of nurturing and expectation has evidently helped Kiyan stay focused amidst the spotlight.
Making His Own Way
While the Anthony name is synonymous with basketball excellence, Kiyan exhibits a thoughtful approach to his future. He has yet to finalize his college decision and is taking his time to ensure he makes the best choice for his career and personal development. "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.
The young athlete is also mindful of the privileges he enjoys and expresses a sense of responsibility towards 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 said.
Every step Kiyan takes in his burgeoning career reflects a maturity beyond his years. Whether or not he chooses to don the Syracuse orange, it's clear he values the freedom to make his own decisions. "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.
As Kiyan Anthony's journey unfolds, one thing is certain: he is navigating the path with a blend of family guidance, personal resolve, and a deep love for the game. The basketball world eagerly awaits to see where his talents and choices will lead him next.