In a display that has set the basketball world abuzz, 17-year-old high school phenom Kiyan Anthony showcased his burgeoning talent during a recent workout alongside LA Clippers guard Bones Hyland. The son of NBA legend Carmelo Anthony, Kiyan held his own against the professional guard, leaving fans and analysts alike raving about his potential and pondering whether he’s destined to follow in his father’s illustrious footsteps or forge his own legacy.
Renowned NBA skills coach Chris Brickley, who has trained superstars such as Carmelo Anthony and Kevin Durant, shared a captivating clip of the workout on social media, instantly igniting excitement among basketball enthusiasts. The video captures Kiyan, standing tall at 6-foot-5, effortlessly taking Hyland off the dribble, sinking smooth jumpers, and finishing assertively at the rim. His poise and confidence against an established NBA player gearing up for his fourth season did not go unnoticed.
Kiyan Anthony vs. Bones Hyland. 🔥😤
(via @Cbrickley603, h/t @overtime)
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) August 21, 2024
Social Media Erupts with Praise and Comparisons:
The viral clip prompted an outpouring of admiration on X (formerly Twitter), with many drawing parallels between Kiyan and his 10-time All-Star father. User @ethliv1 remarked, “Kiyan has Melo’s genes, you can tell,” while @thaofficialkat added, “Kiyan is gonna be cold as hell. Melo taught him good.” Others, like @Landof30, took it a step further, proclaiming, “He’s definitely league-ready.” The consensus is clear: Kiyan Anthony is not just living up to his family name but is also emerging as a standout talent in his own right.
A Steady Rise Through High School and AAU Circuits:
Kiyan’s performance during the workout is the latest highlight in what has been an impressive year for the young guard. Playing for Long Island Lutheran High School and his father’s AAU team, Team Melo, he has consistently demonstrated elite skills and a high basketball IQ. In June, he averaged an impressive 28.5 points per game at the NBPA Top 100 Camp, followed by 21.8 points per game over eight games at the prestigious PIT tournament last month.
These performances have not only solidified his reputation as one of the top prospects in the country but have also earned him a significant jump to No. 40 on the ESPN 100 rankings for the class of 2025, making him the highest-ranked player from New York. Such rapid development has naturally led to speculation about his future, particularly regarding his collegiate career.
MY 6️⃣!! #agtg pic.twitter.com/mA0h9EYBuX
— Kiyan Anthony (@kiyananthony) July 25, 2024
Decision Time: Following the Legacy or Paving a New Way?
Last month, Kiyan narrowed his college options to six prominent programs: Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, Auburn, USC, and Syracuse. The inclusion of Syracuse, Carmelo Anthony’s alma mater where he famously led the team to a national championship in 2003, has sparked widespread speculation that Kiyan may choose to continue the family legacy there. In an interview with ZagsBlog, Kiyan expressed his admiration for the school, stating, “I just like the atmosphere, you know, obviously my dad went there 20-something years ago, so I just like the atmosphere, I like the family environment.”
However, the young star has also shown interest in exploring other opportunities, emphasizing in a conversation with On3 that he plans to make his final decision by October or November. This deliberation indicates a maturity and desire to carve out his own path, considering all factors before making a commitment that will significantly impact his future.
Kiyan Anthony’s journey so far encapsulates the delicate balance between legacy and individual ambition. Carrying the Anthony name comes with immense pressure and expectations, but Kiyan has shown a remarkable ability to thrive under scrutiny, demonstrating skill, composure, and a relentless work ethic that bodes well for his future.
The recent workout with Bones Hyland serves as a testament to his readiness to compete at higher levels and his commitment to continual improvement. Under the tutelage of esteemed coaches like Chris Brickley and the guidance of his father, Kiyan is strategically positioning himself for success.
Yet, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. The transition from high school to college, and eventually to the NBA, will test his resilience and adaptability. Choosing the right college program will be crucial in providing the platform and support he needs to develop further and prepare for the professional stage.
As fans and observers eagerly await his decision, one thing is certain: Kiyan Anthony is a talent to watch, and his journey will be an exciting narrative in the evolving landscape of basketball. Whether he chooses to honor his father’s legacy at Syracuse or forge a new path elsewhere, his potential and drive suggest a bright future ahead.
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