Kiyan Anthony, a name that's resonating more loudly in high school basketball circles, is carving his own niche in the sport. Standing tall at 6-foot-5, Kiyan is not just another teenager with potential; he's a four-star recruit and the No. 36 prospect in the 2025 rankings. Currently attending Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York, he has his sights set on a future as bright as his talent.
Despite the shadow cast by his famous father, Carmelo Anthony, Kiyan is determined to create his own path. “[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.
A Considered Decision
With offers pouring in from prestigious programs, Kiyan is taking his time to decide where he wants to play at the collegiate level. Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and Syracuse are among the schools on his list. “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 pressure to follow in his father's footsteps at Syracuse, where Carmelo led the team to the 2003 national championship as a freshman and later donated substantially to its basketball facility, is palpable. Yet, Kiyan maintains a level-headed approach, emphasizing his autonomy in the decision-making process. "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,” he emphasized.
Support System at Home
While much of the spotlight focuses on Carmelo, Kiyan highlights the significant role his mother plays in his life. “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. 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."
A Rising Star
Kiyan's talents were on full display in April when he scored 15 points at the iconic Rucker Park. Performances like these only add to his growing reputation in the basketball community. His ability to stay grounded while managing the high expectations speaks volumes about his character.
As Kiyan navigates the recruiting process, he remains focused on making 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. The decision, he knows, is his to make, but he values the input and wisdom of those closest to him.
True to his values, Kiyan is also mindful 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, demonstrating a maturity beyond his years.
As the basketball world watches Kiyan Anthony's journey, it's clear that he's not just following in the footsteps of a legend; he's on a mission to become one in his own right.