Kiyan Anthony: Emerging Talent with a Legacy to Consider
High school basketball is buzzing with the name Kiyan Anthony. Standing at an impressive 6-foot-5, Kiyan's presence on the court is as striking as his family name. A four-star recruit and the No. 36 prospect in the 2025 rankings, he is making waves with his performance at Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York.
But Kiyan's journey is not just about his individual prowess. It is deeply intertwined with the legacy of his father, Carmelo Anthony. Carmelo etched his name into basketball history when he led Syracuse to the 2003 national championship as a freshman. His influence extends beyond accolades, having contributed significantly to Syracuse University's basketball facility, which proudly bears his name.
A Deliberate Path
Despite the looming shadow of his father's legacy, Kiyan remains determined to chart his own course. "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," he shared candidly.
While many ardent fans and onlookers expect Kiyan to follow in his father’s hallowed footsteps at Syracuse, the young athlete remains contemplative about his choices. "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.
College Aspirations
With a list of potential colleges that includes Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and Syracuse, Kiyan is meticulously weighing his options. He acknowledges that his parents will play a significant role in this decision-making process. "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.
The Role of Family
While Carmelo’s influence is undeniably strong, Kiyan emphasizes the crucial support he receives from 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," he said. "Like, when I'm going through something or I need somebody to talk to, my mom is definitely the person."
His mother is not just his confidante but also a driving force behind his discipline and focus. "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.
Grounded by Friendships
Even as he ascends the ranks in high school basketball, Kiyan is mindful of keeping his friends close. "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 shared. "I don't want to make them feel left out."
Kiyan’s grounded approach is evident in how he balances his aspirations with his personal values. He may frequently practice and work out at Syracuse, but the decision to commit is deeply personal. "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.
In April, Kiyan showcased his talent by scoring 15 points at Rucker Park, signaling his readiness for bigger stages. As the basketball world watches, Kiyan Anthony’s journey unfolds with the weight of a legacy, but also with the promise of an athlete determined to carve his unique path. His decisions in the coming years will not just reflect his skills on the court, but the maturity and wisdom with which he navigates the complex interplay of expectations and personal choices.