Kiyan Anthony: The Next Generation of Basketball Greatness
Kiyan Anthony, a name gaining recognition in the realm of high school basketball, has all the makings of a future star. Standing tall at 6-foot-5, Kiyan has already established himself as one of the top prospects in the 2025 rankings, boasting a commendable four-star recruit status and occupying the No. 36 spot. His performance on the court and his strategic mindset off it have caught the attention of both fans and college scouts alike.
Kiyan currently attends Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York, where his basketball prowess continues to develop. One of his notable performances came last April at the iconic Rucker Park, where he scored 15 points, a testament to his ever-growing skill set and confidence on the court.
While Kiyan's talent is undeniable, his journey is invariably linked to the legacy of his father, Carmelo Anthony. Carmelo, a revered figure in basketball, famously led Syracuse University to a national championship in 2003 during his freshman year. His contributions to Syracuse are not just historical but also tangible, as evidenced by the basketball facility at the university that bears his name, a result of his substantial financial contributions.
Despite the natural inclination to follow in his father's footsteps, Kiyan is determined to carve out his own path. "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."
Speculation abounds regarding Kiyan's potential college choice, with Syracuse often highlighted as a likely destination. However, Kiyan maintains a pragmatic approach, considering multiple options including Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, and Rutgers. "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.
It's evident that Kiyan's decision-making process is thorough and multifaceted, reflecting a maturity beyond his years. This level-headedness can be attributed, in part, to the support system around him, particularly 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," Kiyan said. "But I would say my mom does a lot more background stuff."
His mother's influence extends beyond just basketball. "Like, when I'm going through something or I need somebody to talk to, my mom is definitely the person," Kiyan said. "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."
Balancing expectations and personal aspirations is a delicate act for any young athlete, and Kiyan is no exception. He remains mindful of the unique opportunities his talent affords him and is committed to sharing that journey with those close to 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," Kiyan said, emphasizing his loyalty and sense of responsibility. "I don't want to make them feel left out."
Kiyan's future in basketball appears bright, not just because of his talent but also his grounded perspective. He continues to weigh his college options, saying, "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."
The possibility of following his father to Syracuse remains open, but it's clear that Kiyan's choice will be his own. "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 continues to build his legacy, the basketball world watches with anticipation. With a solid support system and a clear vision for his future, Kiyan is poised to make a significant impact, perhaps even surpassing the monumental achievements of his legendary father.