Kiyan Anthony: A Rising Star Carving His Own Path
The legacy of a basketball great often casts a long shadow, but Kiyan Anthony, the son of NBA star Carmelo Anthony, is stepping into the spotlight on his own terms. Standing at an impressive 6-foot-5, Kiyan has already made a name for himself as a four-star recruit and the No. 36 prospect in the 2025 high school basketball rankings. Currently attending Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York, the young talent is drawing significant attention from top college programs.
Despite the inevitable comparisons to his father, who led Syracuse to a national championship in 2003 and has a Syracuse University basketball facility named after him due to his substantial contributions, Kiyan is adamant about forging his own path. “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 level of introspection and independence speaks volumes about the young athlete's maturity.
Kiyan has already listed several potential colleges, including Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and Syracuse. Each school offers unique opportunities, and Kiyan is taking his time to ensure he makes the best decision for his future. “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. It's clear that while he values his parents' input, Kiyan is distinctly his own person, looking to make a choice that aligns with his personal and athletic aspirations.
His father, Carmelo, has been supportive in Kiyan's journey, but he isn't exerting undue pressure. “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. This freedom to choose is critical as Kiyan navigates the significant expectations placed upon him.
Behind the scenes, Kiyan’s mother plays a pivotal 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. His mother ensures that he stays grounded and focused on the essentials, from academic responsibilities to consistent practice routines. “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,” he added. Her influence is undeniably central to Kiyan’s balanced approach to life and basketball.
It's not just his family who benefits from Kiyan’s thoughtful nature. He is also conscientious about his friends and their experiences. “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 shared. This sense of loyalty and responsibility enriches the community around him, showcasing the character that complements his athletic talent.
In a recent showcase of his skills, Kiyan scored 15 points at the legendary Rucker Park in April, further cementing his reputation as a player to watch. With each game, he continues to prove that he possesses a unique combination of talent, work ethic, and humility.
Kiyan Anthony’s journey is a compelling narrative of a young athlete determined to honor his family legacy while establishing his own identity. As he continues to evaluate his college options and build his game, the future looks incredibly bright for this rising star in high school basketball.