Kiyan Anthony isn’t just playing to follow in his father’s footsteps: he’s aiming to build a legacy of his own. Despite averaging nearly 20 points a game this season, he didn’t land a spot in the McDonald’s All-American Game. Although Kiyan played in fewer than 50% of games due to a back injury, fans and his father suspected deeper reasons behind his exclusion. Instead of dwelling on the setback, Kiyan channeled his frustration into a commanding on-court performance.
One voice was especially bothered by the snub: Gilbert Arenas. During his podcast, he called out the decision. “The king of New York was not in the McDonald’s All-American Game,” he said, clearly frustrated. He even argued that Kiyan’s presence could’ve eclipsed the buzz surrounding the Knicks that week. Arenas didn’t hold back, arguing that the absence of New York’s top-ranked high schooler left the event without its rightful centerpiece. He believed missing out on this moment wasn’t just unfair: it was disrespectful.
But Kiyan didn’t let it define him—he used it as fuel. At the Jordan Brand Classic, he dominated the court, leaving no doubt about his potential. Gilbert, still fired up, took to Instagram to say, “Told yall leaving him on That Mcdonalds game was gonna turn him up @kiyananthony jordan Classic MVP aint Done YET 100.” The viral moment echoed the sentiment Carmelo Anthony might have felt—a silent vindication through his son’s triumph.
July 18, 2024; North Augusta, S.C., USA; A photographer’s flash goes off as Kiyan Anthony, son of NBA star Carmelo Anthony, warms up before the Team Melo and Georgia Stars game at the Nike Peach Jam at Riverview Park Activities Center. The Georgia Stars won 64-63. Mandatory Credit: Katie Goodale-USA TODAY Network
Kiyan backed up every word with his game. He dropped 26 points, including five three-pointers, and added three rebounds and two assists. His shooting was smooth, and he appeared locked in from the start. The crowd couldn’t get enough, and neither could his dad, Carmelo, who cheered proudly from the sidelines. Even his mother, La La Anthony, shared how proud she was in her Instagram Story.
With his MVP performance, Kiyan proved he’s ready. Not just to wear the Syracuse orange, but to carve his own path, parallel to the legend of Melo. And while others talk, this kid lets the box score do the shouting. Next stop: his own chapter in the Anthony legacy
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