Kiyan Anthony stands tall in the world of high school basketball, both literally and figuratively. At 6-foot-5 and with a reputation as a four-star recruit, Anthony has established himself as the No. 36 prospect in the 2025 rankings, capturing the attention of major college programs across the nation.
A Name and Legacy
Basketball runs in the Anthony family's veins. Kiyan is the son of Carmelo Anthony, who famously led Syracuse University to a national championship in 2003. Despite his father's iconic status and his substantial contributions to Syracuse’s basketball facility, Kiyan is clear about 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." This perspective reveals a young man determined to carve his own legacy, even when the world expects him to follow in his father's footsteps.
Choices and Considerations
Anthony's potential college list is a who's who of top-tier programs. Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, and of course, Syracuse are all vying for his talent. The decision is far from made. "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 explains. It’s a pragmatic approach, showing that his focus isn't just on the prestige of a program but also on fit and development.
Visits to these institutions are still on Kiyan’s to-do list, and he plans to rely heavily on his parents' advice as he weighs his options. "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." Despite the immense external pressure, the final decision rests with Kiyan, highlighting the measured and thoughtful manner in which he approaches his future.
Family Support
While Carmelo Anthony's influence is deeply respected, it’s his mother who often stands front and center in Kiyan’s development off the court. "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 notes. His mother is his pillar of support, especially during challenging times: "Like, when I'm going through something or I need somebody to talk to, my mom is definitely the person." She ensures that he stays disciplined in both his academics and athletics: "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 holistic support system underscores the grounded nature of Kiyan’s upbringing.
On and Off the Court
Anthony’s talent was on full display when he scored 15 points at the legendary Rucker Park in April. It's evident that he's making a name for himself on the court. Off the court, Kiyan shows a strong sense of loyalty and community, often considering the opportunities he can share with 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. I don't want to make them feel left out," he shares, revealing a maturity that extends beyond his years.
Future Prospects
The prospect of Kiyan attending Syracuse is tantalizing for many, given his father's storied history there. However, Kiyan is mindful of setting his own course. "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 Anthony is a young man standing at the crossroads of immense opportunity. Whether he follows his father to Syracuse or charts his own path at another top program, one thing is certain: The basketball world will be watching closely as his journey unfolds.