For many young athletes, particularly those with famous family legacies, the pressure to follow in the footsteps of their predecessors can be overwhelming. Kiyan Anthony, the son of NBA superstar Carmelo Anthony, stands at this proverbial crossroads, particularly as he approaches a significant decision regarding his future in college basketball. A four-star prospect ranked among the top in the 2025 ESPN 100, Kiyan must navigate the expectations tied to his father’s iconic tenure at Syracuse, where Carmelo led the Orange to a 2003 national championship. Despite the shadow cast by his father’s past achievements, Kiyan displays a strong sense of individuality, emphasizing that his decision about college will ultimately be his own.
Kiyan explicitly stated that his father has never pressured him to choose Syracuse merely because of his illustrious history there. His assertion underscores an essential component of his upbringing: autonomy. In an interview with ESPN, Kiyan articulated, “He knows that I’m my own person. I’ve just got to make my own decision at the end of the day.” This sentiment reflects not just Kiyan’s desire for independence but also the healthy familial dynamics nurtured by both parents, including La La Anthony, his mother, who is a public figure in her own right.
As Kiyan nears a decision, he must weigh multiple options including Syracuse, Auburn, USC, Florida State, Ohio State, and Rutgers. Each school offers diverse playing styles, coaching philosophies, and campus cultures that could shape his college experience. Kiyan’s commitment to evaluate each program on its own merits illustrates a thoughtful approach to his recruitment, signaling a desire to find a fit that resonates with him personally rather than simply defaulting to what may seem like the expected choice.
His candidness about potentially choosing Syracuse reveals an inherent admiration for the institution, having frequented it for practice sessions and workouts. However, it contextualizes the overarching theme of agency within Kiyan’s narrative. His commitment to making an informed decision based on his visits underscores a maturity that belies his young age. As he articulates, “I still have to finish up my visits, and then, ultimately, just make a decision.” The gravity of this decision weighs on Kiyan not because of his father’s legacy but due to his aspirations and vision for his own career.
The scrutiny that comes with being Kiyan Anthony extends far beyond typical teenage experiences. Social media platforms teeming with followers, including La La’s 15 million Instagram subscribers, add layers of visibility and expectation. This dynamic can be burdensome, yet Kiyan appears to embrace it, purposefully integrating his friends and teammates into his journey. He acknowledges their support and seeks to elevate them alongside him, stating, “I don’t want to make them feel left out.” This collaborative ethos suggests Kiyan’s understanding of camaraderie in sports while reinforcing that authenticity should transcend familial fame.
Additionally, Kiyan desires to showcase versatility in his playing style. While some highlights, such as a viral performance at Rucker Park, may have drawn attention, Kiyan’s focus on demonstrating his playmaking abilities points towards a deeper intention. He aims not just to be recognized as Carmelo’s son but as a legitimate talent in his own right, capable of contributing to a team in multifaceted roles.
Family plays an indispensable role in Kiyan’s growth, shaping his character and work ethic. While his father garners much of the public eye, Kiyan acknowledges his mother’s critical influence behind the scenes. “She’s the one who really pushes me to get in the gym,” he admits, highlighting the different roles both parents play in shaping his identity as an athlete. The synergy of their contributions fosters a holistic development, equipping Kiyan with the resilience necessary to face challenges both on and off the court.
Kiyan Anthony is at an exciting juncture, balancing the expectations of a storied legacy with an earnest desire to forge his own path. As he approaches this pivotal choice, he stands determined to chart a course that aligns with his values and aspirations. Each visit, each conversation with coaches, builds towards a decision that seeks to honor his past while embracing his future. Kiyan remains steadfast: “Even though I know basically the whole world wants me to go to Syracuse, I still haven’t made the decision yet.” His narrative is a testament to the delicate dance between leveraging familial legacy and pursuing individual aspirations on a stage that is uniquely his own.
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