Kiyan Anthony, a name that's swiftly becoming synonymous with talent in high school basketball, stands tall at 6-foot-5. Attending Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York, Kiyan's prowess on the court has earned him a four-star recruit status and the No. 36 spot in the 2025 rankings. The young athlete seems poised to follow in some large footsteps, those of his father, NBA legend Carmelo Anthony.
The Legacy of Carmelo Anthony
Carmelo Anthony's legacy casts a long shadow. As a freshman, he led Syracuse University to the national championship in 2003, a feat that etched his name in college basketball history. His contributions to the university didn’t end there; he has funded substantial improvements to the basketball facility, now proudly bearing his name.
Despite this legacy, Carmelo’s approach to his son's future is notably hands-off. 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." It’s a sentiment that underscores the importance of forging one's path, despite the inclinations of others.
Potential Colleges on the Horizon
Kiyan Anthony is scrutinizing his opportunities with a keen eye. He has listed Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and Syracuse as potential collegiate destinations. Despite widespread expectations, he remains undecided about following his father’s footsteps to Syracuse.
"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. This pragmatic approach highlights his methodical consideration, weighing the pros and cons before making a definitive choice.
Influence of Family
While the cameras often capture moments between Kiyan and his father, it's his mother who plays a crucial role behind the scenes. "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."
Her influence extends beyond emotional support. "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," Kiyan added. Her encouragement is indispensable, bolstering his discipline and ensuring he remains grounded amidst the growing limelight.
A Star in the Making
Kiyan’s on-court performances have already made headlines. In April, he scored 15 points at the storied Rucker Park, a venue that has seen many basketball legends grace its asphalt. These moments are building blocks of a legacy that echoes potential greatness.
Amidst the attention and pressure, Kiyan is conscious of the unique opportunities he has. "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. This awareness of privilege and the desire to uplift others highlight his maturity beyond his years. "I don't want to make them feel left out," he added, exhibiting a sense of camaraderie and loyalty.
Future Decisions
The decision regarding his college choice looms large. "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," Kiyan noted. It’s clear that while he values his independence, he deeply respects the guidance from his family.
Should Syracuse be his choice, it would be an emotional but independent decision. "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.
Kiyan Anthony's journey is one to watch. With his family’s steadfast support and his own remarkable talents, the future seems bright for this promising athlete. Regardless of where he ends up, Kiyan is certain to make his mark on the world of basketball, writing his own chapter in the illustrious Anthony legacy.