Kiyan Anthony: A Rising Star With His Own Path
In the world of high school basketball, few names ignite a buzz quite like Kiyan Anthony. At just 6-foot-5, the Long Island Lutheran High School standout is already carving out a significant reputation on the court. Ranked as a four-star recruit and the No. 36 prospect in the 2025 rankings, Kiyan's ascent in the sport has been remarkable.
Kiyan's journey, however, is not solely defined by his skills on the hardwood. Being the son of NBA legend Carmelo Anthony, he carries the weight of expectations but is determined to forge his own path. Reflecting on his father's influence, Kiyan shared, "[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."
The Syracuse Connection
Carmelo Anthony is synonymous with Syracuse basketball. His heroics led the team to a national championship in 2003 as a freshman, and his contributions to the university extend beyond his playing days, with the basketball facility at Syracuse University bearing his name. Despite this close connection, Kiyan emphasized that his father's legacy at Syracuse is not a determinant for his own college choice. "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.
Potential Destinations
Kiyan Anthony has publicly listed several potential colleges, including Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and of course, Syracuse. His final decision will be influenced by multiple factors, as he pointed out, "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." It is clear that Kiyan values the insights of both his mother and father in this significant decision-making process.
Family Influence
While Carmelo's stardom often steals the spotlight, Kiyan is quick to acknowledge the substantial role his mother plays in his life. "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. He continues, "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."
Indeed, the support system around Kiyan is robust, facilitating not just his athletic growth but also his personal development. "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, underscoring his sense of loyalty and friendship off the court.
Emerging Under Pressure
Kiyan's prowess was on full display in April when he scored 15 points at the iconic Rucker Park, a venue known for its storied history in basketball. Performances like these only add to the anticipation of what he can achieve in the future. The young athlete maintains a mature perspective on the pressures and expectations, continually emphasizing his autonomy in decision-making and respect for his father's legacy. "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 he continues to develop his game and weigh his college options, Kiyan Anthony stands as a testament to the blend of talent, guidance, and independence. He remains unfazed by the shadows cast by his celebrated father, instead focusing on carving out his own unique legacy in the world of basketball.