Kiyan Anthony: A Rising Star with Strong Roots and Unique Aspirations
Kiyan Anthony, standing tall at 6-foot-5, is quickly becoming a notable presence in high school basketball. Currently a four-star recruit and ranked as the No. 36 prospect in the 2025 rankings, Kiyan is making waves on the court with his impressive skills and dedicated work ethic.
Attending Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York, Kiyan has shown remarkable talent and potential from an early age. In April, he scored 15 points at the iconic Rucker Park, a performance that highlighted his growing prowess and attracted considerable attention from scouts and fans alike.
Decision Ahead: College Prospects and Parental Guidance
As he approaches the critical decision of choosing a college, Kiyan has listed several top programs, including Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and Syracuse. Despite the fame associated with his father, Carmelo Anthony, a Syracuse legend who led the team to the 2003 national championship as a freshman, Kiyan is determined to make his own path.
"[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, emphasizing the importance of forging his 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,” he explained, illustrating his thoughtful and strategic approach to this pivotal choice.
Family Influence: Support Beyond the Spotlight
While the Anthony name carries significant weight in the basketball community, Kiyan is clear that his mother's influence is equally crucial in his development, both on and off the court.
Highlighting his mother's contributions, Kiyan said, "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 added, "Like, when I'm going through something or I need somebody to talk to, my mom is definitely the person."
The dedication and support from his mother extend beyond emotional guidance. "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 noted, underscoring the vital role of parental involvement in his journey.
As Kiyan navigates his recruitment process, he remains anchored by the advice and support of his parents. "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 mentioned.
Balancing Fame and Friendship
Growing up in the spotlight comes with its unique set of challenges, but Kiyan is mindful of staying grounded and inclusive, especially when it comes to his friends. "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, revealing his commitment to ensuring his success doesn't create barriers with those close to him.
"I don't want to make them feel left out," he added, shedding light on the pressures young athletes face and the importance of maintaining strong personal connections.
The Syracuse Connection: A Legacy Considered
Despite Kiyan's determination to make his own decision, the connection to Syracuse remains a significant consideration. "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, reflecting the balance of legacy and independence in his decision-making process.
With a blend of innate talent, a solid support system, and a clear vision for his future, Kiyan Anthony is carving out his unique path in the world of basketball. As he prepares for the next steps in his journey, the blend of his own aspirations and the influence of his esteemed lineage make for a captivating narrative, one that basketball enthusiasts will undoubtedly follow closely.