Kiyan Anthony: The Rising Star of High School Basketball
Kiyan Anthony has quickly become a name to watch in high school basketball. Standing at an impressive 6-foot-5, Kiyan is already turning heads as a four-star recruit, ranked No. 36 in the 2025 class. This talented young athlete is currently showcasing his skills at Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York.
Being the son of NBA legend Carmelo Anthony comes with its own set of expectations and pressures. Carmelo, known for leading Syracuse University to the 2003 national championship as a freshman, has had a significant impact on the sport. He has generously contributed to Syracuse’s basketball facility, which now proudly bears his name.
However, Kiyan is determined to forge 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," he explained. "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."
It is clear that Kiyan values his independence when it comes to making such a crucial decision. "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 list of potential colleges includes Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and, of course, Syracuse. "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.
Despite the spotlight often focused on him and his father, Kiyan emphasizes 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," Kiyan said. "Like, when I'm going through something or I need somebody to talk to, my mom is definitely the person."
Indeed, his mother’s influence is a driving force behind his work ethic and academic dedication. "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.
On the court, Kiyan has already shown glimpses of his potential. In April, he scored 15 points at the iconic Rucker Park, adding yet another highlight to his burgeoning career. Nevertheless, the young athlete remains grounded and focused on the future.
There is undoubtedly a unique pressure that comes with being the son of a basketball icon. Yet, Kiyan remains poised, balancing the expectations with a clear vision for his own career. "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.
Importantly, Kiyan also understands the value of uplifting 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," he said. "I don't want to make them feel left out."
As Kiyan Anthony continues to develop his game and consider his college options, it’s clear he is making thoughtful and deliberate choices about his future. Regardless of which path he ultimately chooses, his journey will be watched closely by basketball enthusiasts eager to see how this rising star will shine on the next stage of his career.