Kiyan Anthony, the talented son of NBA legend Carmelo Anthony, is set to reveal his college basketball decision in a groundbreaking way. Fans across the country are eagerly awaiting the announcement, which will be streamed live on YouTube via Carmelo’s “7PM in Brooklyn” channel. The decision will air on Friday at 5:30 p.m. ET, marking a significant moment for the 17-year-old rising star.
A Choice Between Two Prestigious Programs
Kiyan Anthony has narrowed his options to two elite basketball programs: Syracuse University and the University of Southern California (USC). The decision is particularly poignant because of his father’s legacy at Syracuse. Carmelo Anthony led the Orange to their only NCAA men’s basketball national championship in 2003, earning the NCAA Tournament’s Most Outstanding Player award in the process.
While Syracuse holds sentimental value for the Anthony family, it’s not a guaranteed choice. Kiyan has made visits to both Syracuse and USC, carefully considering the environment, coaching staff, and opportunities each program offers.
| Program | Notable Factors |
|---|---|
| Syracuse | Carmelo Anthony’s alma mater; top-notch facilities, including Carmelo K. Anthony Basketball Center |
| USC | Strong West Coast program; opportunity to create an independent legacy |
Kiyan’s Rising Star Power
Standing at 6’4” and playing as a shooting guard, Kiyan is already making waves in the basketball world. Ranked as the 6th-best shooting guard in the nation for the class of 2025 by 247Sports, he is regarded as one of New York’s top high school basketball prospects. Other recruiting sites also rank him highly:
- On3: No. 30 overall, with a 93.7% chance of choosing Syracuse.
- 247Sports: No. 34 overall.
- ESPN: No. 36 overall.
Kiyan’s skillset combines precision shooting, explosive drives to the basket, and impressive playmaking ability. These attributes, combined with his basketball IQ, make him a highly sought-after recruit for any college program.
Carmelo’s Influence on Kiyan’s Journey
Carmelo Anthony, one of the NBA’s most iconic players, has shared insights into Kiyan’s development. He emphasizes that while Kiyan’s environment is different from his own upbringing, his son brings unique strengths to the game.
Carmelo’s Perspective on Kiyan
When comparing himself to Kiyan at the same age, Carmelo said:
- “My game back then at 16 was a little more physical. My ‘why’ was a lot different because of my upbringing.”
- “[Kiyan] has skills I didn’t have. His court vision at this level is very high. His shot-making ability is high… His playmaking and IQ are sometimes overlooked because of his ability to score.”
Carmelo has also expressed his hope that Kiyan avoids the “one-and-done” route to the NBA, instead focusing on growth and long-term development.
Why Syracuse Could Be the Perfect Fit
Syracuse offers Kiyan a chance to step into a program that holds deep familial and historical significance. The state-of-the-art Carmelo K. Anthony Basketball Center provides a world-class facility for training and development, giving Kiyan the tools to refine his game.
More importantly, choosing Syracuse would allow Kiyan to forge his own legacy within a program where his father is revered. With his unique style and skills, he could elevate the Orange and establish himself as a standout player on a team looking to return to national prominence.
The Case for USC
On the other hand, USC represents an opportunity for Kiyan to build a legacy entirely separate from his father’s. The Trojans boast a competitive basketball program on the West Coast and could offer him a fresh environment to thrive. Choosing USC would signal Kiyan’s desire to carve his own path in a new setting, away from the shadow of Carmelo’s accomplishments.
Key Factors in Kiyan’s Decision
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Legacy | Syracuse ties to Carmelo could provide motivation or added pressure. |
| Facilities | Syracuse’s Carmelo K. Anthony Basketball Center offers elite resources. |
| Independence | USC offers a chance to create a unique legacy on a different coast. |
| Development Goals | Both programs provide strong coaching and development opportunities. |
Final Thoughts
Kiyan Anthony’s decision marks a major step in his basketball journey. Whether he chooses Syracuse to honor his family legacy or USC to chart his own path, the young shooting guard is poised for a bright future.
Fans won’t have to wait long, as the announcement airs live on Friday, November 17, at 5:30 p.m. ET. Tune in to Carmelo Anthony’s “7PM in Brooklyn” channel on YouTube to witness this pivotal moment in basketball recruiting history.