Kiyan Anthony: The Next Big Thing in High School Basketball
Kiyan Anthony, a name that basketball aficionados are growing increasingly familiar with, is rapidly ascending the ranks of high school basketball. At just a young age, Kiyan has managed to carve out a promising future, much like his father, NBA legend Carmelo Anthony.
Standing at an impressive 6-foot-5, Kiyan Anthony is a four-star recruit and is currently ranked as the No. 36 prospect in the 2025 class. He attends Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York, where his performances on the court have captured the attention of several top-tier college programs.
Earlier this year, Kiyan made waves by scoring 15 points at the iconic Rucker Park, further establishing his reputation as one of the most talented players in his cohort. But beyond his physical prowess and scoring ability, it’s his mental approach and grounded personality that distinguish him from his peers. Despite being the son of a basketball superstar, Kiyan is determined to forge his own path.
The Influence of Carmelo Anthony
Carmelo Anthony is a name that resonates with basketball fans around the globe. Having led Syracuse to a national championship in 2003 as a freshman and making substantial contributions to the university’s basketball facilities, Carmelo has left an indelible mark on the sport. However, when it comes to his son’s future, he takes a hands-off approach.
"[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."
Kiyan’s journey to deciding on a college is still ongoing, and while many speculate about him following in his father's footsteps, he remains undecided. "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.
A Mother's Influence
Much of Kiyan’s development, both on and off the court, can be attributed to the influence of his mother. While Carmelo may be the more recognizable parental figure due to his basketball career, Kiyan emphasizes his mother's significant role.
"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."
Kiyan's mother is also instrumental in ensuring he stays focused on his academic and athletic responsibilities. "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.
The Future Ahead
As Kiyan concludes his high school career, he faces the daunting task of choosing a college. He has listed Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and Syracuse as potential destinations. Each of these programs offers unique opportunities and challenges, and Kiyan plans to rely heavily on his parents for advice during this crucial decision-making period.
"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.
For Kiyan, the decision is deeply personal and not simply a matter of living up to expectations. "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.
But while the question of where remains, Kiyan remains committed to bringing his friends along on his journey. "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."
As Kiyan Anthony continues to navigate his burgeoning basketball career, it's clear that he possesses not only the talent but also the maturity and support system to soar to great heights. And wherever he ends up, the basketball world will undoubtedly be watching closely.