Kiyan Anthony: Charting His Own Path in Basketball
Kiyan Anthony is carving out his own identity in the world of high school basketball, away from the substantial shadow cast by his father, NBA legend Carmelo Anthony. At just 6-foot-5, Kiyan is already making waves as a four-star recruit and the No. 36 prospect in the 2025 rankings, capturing the attention of top colleges nationwide.
Currently a student at Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York, Kiyan's basketball prowess is evident. He recently showcased his talent by scoring 15 points at the iconic Rucker Park in April, an achievement that further established his reputation as a rising star.
Despite the inevitable comparisons to his father, Carmelo Anthony, who led Syracuse to the 2003 national championship as a freshman and later contributed a substantial sum to the university’s basketball facility, Kiyan is determined to make his own decisions. "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," Kiyan shared, highlighting his desire for independence.
College Prospects and Decision-Making
Kiyan has already listed Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and Syracuse as potential colleges. As he navigates the recruiting process, he is taking a considered approach, weighing various factors before making his ultimate decision. "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.
The young athlete is also cognizant of the roles his parents play in his journey. While his father’s accomplishments and contributions to Syracuse are well-documented, Kiyan credits his mother for significant support and guidance off the court. "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, acknowledging her efforts. "Like, when I'm going through something or I need somebody to talk to, my mom is definitely the person," he added, demonstrating the balanced influence of both parents.
The Influence of Family
Kiyan’s mother plays an instrumental role in keeping him grounded and disciplined. "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 remarked. Her emphasis on academics and work ethic ensures that Kiyan remains focused on his overall development, both as an athlete and as a student.
As he continues with his college visits, Kiyan plans to rely heavily on his parents' advice to make an informed decision about 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.
Balancing Expectations and Opportunities
While public expectations may lean towards a commitment to Syracuse, Kiyan remains open to exploring all options. "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, demonstrating his commitment to making a choice that is true to himself.
Moreover, Kiyan is mindful of using his platform to lift 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," he said. "I don't want to make them feel left out," he added, showcasing a maturity and sense of responsibility beyond his years.
As Kiyan Anthony continues to rise in the ranks of high school basketball, he remains firmly focused on forging his own path, with a support system that respects his choices and personal growth. Whether at Syracuse or another prestigious program, one thing is clear: Kiyan Anthony has the talent, the mindset, and the family support to make a significant impact on and off the court.