We understand why Kiyan Anthony left his father behind in Paris. The City of Light and the Olympics were thrilling experiences, but for a hooper, nothing beats being on the court. As soon as Kiyan got the chance to flex his skills, he flew right back to New York. Even if that meant leaving New York Knicks legend Carmelo Anthony in Paris.

Fans watched Kiyan display his exceptional game at the NY vs. NY tournament, but what they didn’t know was that the 17-year-old wasn’t even supposed to play. “He wasn’t even supposed to play. He’d just be popping up at parks and s*** like,  jumping on n***** teams,” Melo noted.

In the latest episode of 3 PM Brooklyn, Melo proudly spoke about Kiyan’s achievements and humorously detailed how he was left behind in Paris. “What ended up happening, I guess he told them he was available that’s why the n**** left me from Paris,” Melo explained.

After an exceptional summer in the NYBL, Kiyan took a trip to Japan with his mother, La La Anthony, before heading to Paris. He sat courtside next to his father alongside NBA legends Dirk Nowitzki and Pau Gasol. However, Kiyan didn’t stay long in Paris after the games ended.

He quickly returned to New York for the game, which is why Melo couldn’t attend the tournament semifinals. However, he ensured to be present for his son Kiyan in the Finals.

Kiyan played for Gersh Park. While his team lost to the Bronx, Kiyan’s squad defeated Dyckman to make it to the finals. NBA talents like Jonathan Kuminga and Cole Anthony have previously played in the NY vs. NY tournament. Kiyan has similar aspirations. However, Melo assured his son that he shouldn’t rush but follow his own pace.

Carmelo Anthony supports his son

Melo was just 19 years old when he joined the NBA during the 2003-04 season, surrounded by immense hype. For his son, Melo hopes Kiyan will progress while staying true to his own dreams. In a conversation, Melo shared that he doesn’t put pressure on his son. As a father with celebrity status, he ensures Kiyan doesn’t feel the weight of his fame or expectations.

“I don’t even preach one-and-done to him, I don’t even want you to start thinking that right now. We ain’t rushing nothing, you going to college. If you have to stay for two, if you have to stay for three, we adapt as we go. If you ready to go after your first year, then we’ll look at it,” Melo said.

Kiyan is set to begin his college career next season and has already narrowed down his choices to six colleges, including his father’s alma mater. He led the National Basketball Players Association Top 100 Camp with 28.5 points and displayed exceptional performance in the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League. Furthermore, he was named the No. 1 player in New York state. So far, Kiyan has made his parents incredibly proud.

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.