Kiyan Anthony: A Rising Star Charting His Own Course
The world of high school basketball is watching with keen interest as Kiyan Anthony carves out his own path. Standing at an impressive 6-foot-5, Anthony has drawn significant attention, not just for his skills on the court, but also for his lineage. The young talent is a four-star recruit and is currently ranked as the No. 36 prospect in the 2025 rankings, a testament to his burgeoning potential.
Anthony attends Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, New York, where his performances have already begun to create a buzz. His standout moment came in April when he scored 15 points at the iconic Rucker Park, a venue synonymous with basketball greatness. This performance only added to the anticipation surrounding his future in the sport.
Interest in Kiyan’s potential college decision is naturally high, given his father's legacy. Carmelo Anthony led Syracuse to the national championship in 2003 and has since made substantial contributions to the university’s basketball facility, which proudly bears his name. Yet, Kiyan is emphatic about forging his own identity separate from his father’s shadows.
"[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. His sentiment underscores a determination to evaluate his options objectively, unfettered by external pressures.
Indeed, the list of potential colleges is vast and varied, signifying an open-minded approach to his future. Among the schools on his radar are Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and Syracuse. Each represents a unique opportunity for growth and development, both on and off the court.
"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. This thoughtful consideration speaks volumes about his deliberate and mature approach to this pivotal decision.
The influence of Carmelo Anthony is undoubtedly significant, yet his support comes without overt direction. "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.
Beyond his father’s well-known presence, Kiyan highlights the invaluable 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 revealed. His mother’s influence goes beyond encouragement; it extends into nurturing his mental and academic discipline.
"Like, when I'm going through something or I need somebody to talk to, my mom is definitely the person," he said. "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 strong family support system seems to play a crucial role in Kiyan's journey, providing him with balanced perspectives and steadfast guidance. As he prepares to embark on the next phase of his basketball career, this foundation will undoubtedly help him navigate the complexities of collegiate athletics.
"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. His methodical approach to these visits indicates a maturity that belies his years, further affirming his readiness for the challenges ahead.
Equally noticeable is Kiyan’s loyalty and sense of responsibility towards 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. "I don't want to make them feel left out."
For Kiyan Anthony, the future holds immense promise. As he stands at the cusp of significant decisions, his ability to balance personal ambition with thoughtful consideration of his influences and opportunities sets him apart. The basketball world waits, watches, and wonders what the next chapter will hold for this young phenom, knowing that whatever choice he makes, it will be uniquely his own.