Kiyan Anthony, a rising star in high school basketball, is making waves not only because of his athletic prowess but also due to his notable lineage. The son of NBA legend Carmelo Anthony, Kiyan stands at an impressive 6-foot-5 and attends Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York.
A Four-Star Recruit with Ambitions
Ranked as the No. 36 prospect in the 2025 rankings, Kiyan is a four-star recruit strategically evaluating his options for college. His list of potential schools includes prestigious programs like Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and Syracuse. Despite the attention and expectations from fans, Kiyan remains grounded and deliberate in his selection process.
"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.
A Legacy at Syracuse
Kiyan’s connection to Syracuse University is undeniable. His father, Carmelo Anthony, led Syracuse to the 2003 national championship as a freshman, an achievement that has left an indelible mark on the program. Furthermore, Carmelo has generously contributed to the university’s basketball facility, which now bears his name. Yet, Kiyan asserts that his father is not pushy about following in his footsteps.
"[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.
Supportive Family Dynamics
While the public often focuses on Carmelo, Kiyan is quick to highlight the crucial 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," he said. "Like, when I'm going through something or I need somebody to talk to, my mom is definitely the person."
According to Kiyan, his mother is the driving force behind his discipline and academic commitment. "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.
Balancing Pressure and Independence
With looming decisions about his future, Kiyan remains careful and methodical. "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. This measured approach helps him navigate the immense pressure of living up to his father’s legacy while carving out his own path.
The young athlete also shows a deep sense of loyalty to his friends, acknowledging the unique opportunities he has and wanting to share them. "My friends maybe not having the same opportunities as I have, I'm the one that's tried to bring them along with me," Kiyan said. "I don't want to make them feel left out."
Promising Performance
Kiyan’s talent was on full display during a game in April where he scored 15 points at the iconic Rucker Park, further solidifying his status as a player to watch. His performance continues to draw attention from top college programs, and many eagerly await his final decision.
While Syracuse remains an intrinsic part of his basketball journey, Kiyan is clear that any decision will be his own. "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.
Kiyan Anthony is poised to make a significant impact wherever he chooses to play. With his family's unwavering support and his grounded approach to decision-making, the young star is thoroughly preparing for the next chapter of his burgeoning basketball career.