Following in the footsteps of a basketball legend isn’t for the faint-hearted. But that’s exactly the path Kiyan Anthony is choosing. The 18-year-old son of 10-time NBA All-Star and Syracuse icon Carmelo Anthony is all set to begin his own college journey—right where his dad made history. After committing to Syracuse in November 2024, Kiyan’s decision has only added to the buzz, not just because of the name on his jersey, but because of the game he’s bringing with it.

Six months before his Syracuse debut, Kiyan electrified NBA scouts at the Iverson Classic. On Friday, he laced up for the Iverson Classic workouts, putting on a show in front of NBA scouts. Social media lit up with clips and photos from the practice—and let’s just say, his new build didn’t go unnoticed. Clearly grinding in the gym, Kiyan dropped a one-word comment on one of the posts: “reps.” And honestly, that said it all.

Then came Saturday, and the spotlight got even brighter. As part of the Iverson Classic, curated by none other than Allen Iverson himself, Kiyan not only suited up but stood out. With his Syracuse debut just around the corner, he snatched the “People’s Choice” award at the event, standing beside Iverson himself. But that’s not the end.

The highlight reel kept rolling. Kiyan, alongside Tennessee Titans QB Cameron Ward, walked away with the “Fuel The City Award.” The Iverson Classic’s official account explained it best: “More than just a game. They move the culture.” Carmelo Melo failed to make an appearance for his son’s big day, however. Kiyan, nonetheless, handled the spotlight solo and stole it. After his Iverson Classic heroics, Kiyan took his talents to the Jordan Brand Classic, where he made another statement.

Kiyan Anthony’s MVP moment wasn’t just a win—It was a statement

Kiyan Anthony didn’t just pull up to the 2025 Jordan Brand Classic, he made it his night. The 6’5” Syracuse commit dropped a scorching 26 points on 11-of-15 shooting, grabbed five boards, and led Team Air to a 141-124 win over Team Flight. But beyond the numbers, this one felt personal. After getting left off the McDonald’s All-American roster, Kiyan showed up with something to prove—and left with MVP honors to his name.

Naturally, the reaction came quickly. Not long after the final buzzer, Kiyan posted a short and sharp message to Instagram: “I made the list,” tagging Gilbert Arenas. The shoutout wasn’t random. Arenas has been one of Kiyan’s loudest supporters, especially after the McDonald’s snub. “The king of New York was not invited to the McDonald’s All-American game in New York,” Arenas had said earlier, calling out what many saw as a major miss. Looks like Kiyan heard it all and responded on the court.

Meanwhile, he wasn’t exactly facing second-string talent either. Kiyan went toe-to-toe with top prospects like Darryn Peterson and Cameron Boozer, and didn’t blink. Sure, A.J. Dybantsa had his own stat line with 25 points and nine rebounds, but the game belonged to Kiyan. With a Syracuse jersey waiting for him and a legacy to chase, he’s already proving he’s got more than just the name.

And finally, if you ask Carmelo Anthony, this moment hits deeper than just basketball. “My story has always been more than basketball… My legacy, my son, it’s in you,” Melo said. Now it’s Kiyan’s turn—and after this MVP showcase, he’s clearly ready to carry that legacy forward.