In the world of high school basketball, few young players command as much attention as Kiyan Anthony. Standing at 6-foot-5 and attending Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York, Anthony is not just another promising talent; he is a four-star recruit ranked No. 36 in the 2025 class. But his story runs deeper than mere statistics and rankings.
The Legacy of Carmelo Anthony
For fans of basketball, Kiyan’s last name carries significant weight. His father, Carmelo Anthony, led Syracuse University to the 2003 national championship as a freshman and has since contributed substantially to the university's basketball facility, which now bears his name. While this legacy looms large, Kiyan has always emphasized his independence in making life decisions, including where he will play college basketball.
"[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. Despite widespread speculation about his college plans, Kiyan remains non-committal, ensuring that his decision will be thoughtfully considered and entirely his own.
Weighing His Options
Kiyan has been diligent in evaluating his options for college, listing Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and Syracuse as potential destinations. He explained, "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."
This meticulous approach to his future, balancing both basketball and academic considerations, underscores his maturity and determination. "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 added.
Support Behind the Scenes
While Carmelo often attracts the spotlight, Kiyan is quick to acknowledge the pivotal influence of his mother in his journey. "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 noted. He added, "Like, when I'm going through something or I need somebody to talk to, my mom is definitely the person."
He detailed the indispensable role his mother plays, emphasizing her encouragement. "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 said. This support system has been essential for Kiyan, enabling him to focus on his development both on and off the court.
A Glimpse of Stardom
April saw Kiyan showcase his burgeoning talent at the iconic Rucker Park, where he scored 15 points. Spectators and analysts alike took note of his performance, further elevating his status in the realm of high school basketball. Yet, despite his rising profile, Kiyan remains grounded, keenly aware of his peers and their differing opportunities. "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 observed. "I don't want to make them feel left out." This recognition of his position and his efforts to uplift those around him highlight his character and the maturity beyond his years.
The Road Ahead
As Kiyan Anthony continues to carve his path, his focus remains on careful consideration and thoughtful planning. He encapsulated his approach best when discussing the prospect of attending Syracuse: "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."
This clarity of purpose and steadfast determination ensures that, regardless of where Kiyan chooses to play, his journey will be uniquely his own, grounded in a rich blend of legacy, personal ambition, and unwavering support from his family.