Carmelo Anthony, an NBA legend with an illustrious career, is witnessing his son, Kiyan Anthony, follow in his footsteps on the basketball court. Kiyan, 17, the only child of Carmelo and his ex-wife La La Anthony, is already attracting attention from top colleges across the nation. As of 2024, Carmelo’s net worth is around $160 million, and he proudly supports his son’s burgeoning career, marking a new chapter in the Anthony family’s basketball legacy.
Early Beginnings
Born on March 7, 2007, in Denver, Colorado, Kiyan’s early years were spent while his father played for the Denver Nuggets. The family moved to New York City in 2011 when Carmelo was traded to the New York Knicks. Despite Carmelo’s subsequent stints with other teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, and Portland Trail Blazers, New York City remained their home base. Following their parents’ divorce in 2021, Kiyan continued to split his time between his supportive parents.
High School Journey
Kiyan’s high school basketball journey began at Christ the King High School in Queens, New York, a school known for producing basketball talents like Sue Bird and Lamar Odom. In February 2023, Kiyan transferred to Long Island Lutheran High School in Brookville, N.Y., to further his development in the sport. His skills on the court have already earned him several Division I offers from prestigious colleges, including his father’s alma mater, Syracuse University.
College Prospects
Despite being only a sophomore, Kiyan has received offers from Syracuse University, Seton Hall University, and several other Division I schools. He expressed a particular interest in Syracuse, citing his father’s legacy there as a significant influence. In an interview with 247Sports in 2022, Kiyan mentioned, “Syracuse is a big one for me because of my Dad. He set the foundation over there so I won’t go wrong if I went there.” His mother, La La, has also highlighted the importance of education and the possibility of attending an HBCU, reflecting her positive experience at Howard University.
Father-Son Inspiration
The bond between Carmelo and Kiyan is strong and mutually inspirational. Carmelo, who announced his retirement from the NBA in May 2023 after 19 seasons, has expressed pride in passing the torch to his son. In a heartfelt video message, Carmelo stated, “My story has always been more than basketball. My legacy, my son, it’s in you. I will forever continue through you because the time has come for you to carry this torch.” This emotional tribute underscores the deep connection and shared passion for basketball within the Anthony family.
Social Media Presence
Kiyan’s social media is filled with highlights from his basketball career, showcasing his dedication and talent. In October 2022, he told 247Sports, “I’ve been in the gym every day working on my body and my jump shot, and I’m looking forward to the season.” His presence on platforms like Instagram keeps fans updated on his progress and achievements, further cementing his rising star status.
Fashion Interest
Beyond basketball, Kiyan has a keen interest in fashion. He often shares stylish outfits on his Instagram, demonstrating his flair for fashion. In February 2022, Kiyan attended New York Fashion Week with his mother, sitting front row at the LaQuan Smith Fall/Winter 2022 show. La La has noted that Kiyan is meticulous about his overall vibe, including his signature scent, reflecting his attention to personal style and hygiene.
Close-Knit Family
Despite the challenges of their high-profile lives, Kiyan maintains a close relationship with both his parents. On Valentine’s Day 2024, Kiyan penned a heartfelt note to his mother, thanking her for being his valentine for 16 years and expressing his gratitude for her constant support. His bond with his father is equally strong, with Kiyan often supporting Carmelo at games and significant career moments.
Supportive Network
Kiyan’s support network includes not just his family but also famous friends like North West, the daughter of Kim Kardashian. North and her family have been spotted cheering Kiyan on at his games, highlighting the close ties between the Anthonys and the Kardashians. Additionally, Kiyan has a special bond with Kobe Bryant’s daughters, reflecting the deep connections within the basketball community.
Protective Nature
As Kiyan grows older, his protective nature towards his mother has become evident. La La has shared anecdotes about how Kiyan is particularly watchful over her dating life, illustrating the close and protective relationship they share. This dynamic adds a layer of depth to their bond, showcasing the strong family ties that define the Anthonys.
Future Prospects
With his high school graduation set for 2025, Kiyan’s future in basketball looks promising. As he continues to hone his skills and navigate his college options, the support of his parents and his own dedication will be crucial. Kiyan’s journey is just beginning, and with the legacy of his father and the unwavering support of his family, he is poised to make a significant impact on the basketball world.
Conclusion
Kiyan Anthony is more than just the son of an NBA legend; he is a rising basketball star in his own right. At 17, with offers from top colleges and a supportive family behind him, his future looks incredibly bright. As he continues to grow and develop his skills, the legacy of Carmelo Anthony will live on through Kiyan, ensuring that the Anthony name remains synonymous with basketball excellence for years to come.