Kiyan Anthony's Journey: Carving His Own Path in High School Basketball
Kiyan Anthony, son of NBA legend Carmelo Anthony, is already making significant waves in the high school basketball scene. At just 6-foot-5, Kiyan is distinguishing himself with his skills on the court, earning accolades and attention from major college programs nationwide.
Currently attending Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York, Kiyan is not just known for his famous last name but for his exceptional talent. Ranked as a four-star recruit and standing as the No. 36 prospect in the 2025 rankings, he is proving himself to be a formidable player in his own right.
"[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."
This mature outlook showcases Kiyan's commitment to forging his path, even amid the weighty expectations that come with being Carmelo Anthony's son. Carmelo, who led Syracuse to the 2003 national championship as a freshman and donated a substantial sum to the university's basketball facility (which now bears his name), has been careful not to pressure Kiyan into following in his footsteps.
College Choices and Visits
As Kiyan navigates the recruitment process, he has listed Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and Syracuse among his potential college choices. Despite the anticipation and speculation surrounding his decision, he maintains a level-headed approach.
"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.
Support System
Kiyan’s family plays a critical role in his life, offering a balanced support system. While Carmelo's achievements and contributions to Syracuse basketball are well-known, Kiyan emphasizes the significant influence of his mother.
"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."
He added, "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."
Despite the pressures that come with his burgeoning basketball career, Kiyan remains grounded and considerate of those around him. "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," he said.
On the Court
Kiyan’s prowess was on full display when he scored 15 points at the iconic Rucker Park in April. Performances like these only add to the rising star's reputation and why he's a sought-after recruit. His skill set, determination, and strong support system are critical factors in his promising career trajectory.
Looking Ahead
As Kiyan continues to evaluate his college options and complete his recruitment visits, one principle remains clear: his decision will be his own. "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.
He emphasized that his father will support him regardless of the 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 a compelling narrative of a young athlete stepping out of a legendary shadow, determined to create his legacy. As he moves forward, the basketball community watches with keen interest, eager to see where his path leads.