Kiyan Anthony: Rising Star Making His Own Path
Kiyan Anthony, a name quickly gaining prominence in the world of high school basketball, is carving out his own niche, distinct from the towering legacy of his father, Carmelo Anthony. A four-star recruit and currently ranked as the No. 36 prospect in the 2025 rankings, Kiyan's journey is not just marked by his impressive 6-foot-5 frame but also by his personal resolve and determination.
Attending Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York, Kiyan has shown flashes of brilliance on the court, with moments such as scoring 15 points at the iconic Rucker Park in April showcasing his potential. Yet, beyond the statistics and the highlights, Kiyan’s narrative is deeply interwoven with his family's influence and support.
His father, Carmelo Anthony, a legend in his own right who led Syracuse to the 2003 national championship as a freshman and has generously supported Syracuse University’s basketball facility (now bearing his name), has always emphasized one critical aspect: independence in making decisions. "[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 words reveal a young athlete grounded in his understanding of family legacy yet eager to step out of its shadow to define his own path. "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, providing a glimpse into his methodical approach towards making his college decision.
The list of potential colleges is impressive and includes Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and, of course, Syracuse. Each institution brings its own set of opportunities and challenges, and Kiyan is keen on exploring these before making an informed choice. "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," Kiyan noted.
While much of the public attention might gravitate towards his famous father, Kiyan candidly speaks about the often-overlooked yet pivotal 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." He added, "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."
This family support system appears crucial for a young athlete navigating the pressures and expectations of a budding career, ensuring that he remains grounded while aiming for greatness. His consideration for his peers is also evident. "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," Kiyan said, demonstrating a maturity beyond his years.
Ultimately, Kiyan’s journey might intersect with Syracuse, the hallowed grounds where his father made history. "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. These words are a testament to the balance of freedom and guidance Kiyan enjoys as he navigates his pivotal high school years.
As Kiyan Anthony continues to grow and evolve, the basketball world watches in anticipation. He represents not just the promise of future talent but the embodiment of a young athlete who values personal choice, family support, and the importance of forging a path uniquely his own.