Rutgers has joined the competition for Kiyan Anthony, the son of one of the NBA’s greatest players. The Scarlet Knights extended an offer to the four-star shooting guard in the 2025 class, as announced by Anthony on Tuesday. Rutgers now joins Syracuse, St. John’s, Seton Hall, Indiana, and other schools vying for the Long Island Lutheran standout.
Anthony mentioned to ZagsBlog his intention to visit Rutgers, noting, “They’re close to home. My guys are there, Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey. So I’m looking forward to visiting, even if it’s unofficial, and then taking my official visit later. I’m eager to see what Rutgers has to offer.”
He also revealed that he plans to announce his top five or six schools by next week and aims to commit before his senior season starts this winter, targeting October or November.
Kiyan Anthony is the son of Carmelo Anthony, the retired Knicks star with the ninth-highest points in NBA history. Carmelo, a 10-time NBA All-Star, played 19 seasons in the NBA, with his last stint in the 2021-22 season alongside LeBron James with the Lakers. As the No. 3 pick in the 2003 draft, Carmelo was named the Most Outstanding Player of the 2003 NCAA Tournament, leading Syracuse to the national championship. Internationally, he won three Olympic gold medals with USA Basketball in 2008, 2012, and 2016.
When Carmelo retired in 2023, he emphasized that his true legacy would be his son. “People ask what I believe my legacy is. It’s not my feats on the court or the awards. My story has always been more than basketball. My legacy, my son … I will forever continue through you. The time has come for you to carry this torch,” he said.
Kiyan played at Jersey Mike’s Arena in December 2022, where his father watched from the courtside. He also competed at the City of Palms Classic last December against Dylan Harper, a future Rutgers player. Carmelo Anthony praised Harper, noting his growth and leadership on the court. “I’ve loved his development. From ninth grade until now, the way he’s taking control of games, becoming the floor leader, and involving his teammates, I think Rutgers has something special coming next year,” Carmelo told NJ Advance Media.
