Future talents who kept the world on their toes about their college recruitment. AJ Dybantsa made his much anticipated on ESPN’s show to share his commitment to BYU. Meanwhile, after months of teasing, Kiyan Anthony was on his dad’s show to ultimately choose Syracuse. Fans could have seen them playing in the upcoming Allen Iverson Classic, but it seems destiny had other plans. Let’s look at the reason why it did not work out.

First, the 76ers legend announced on his Instagram story about the selection of Carmelo Anthony’s son. “And the final official selection for the the 2025 Iverson Classic All-American roster is Kiyan Anthony 🏆 See who made the cut for the most competitive game of the year 🔥🔥🔥.” The list features names like Nate Ament, Darryn Peterson, Caleb Wilson, and Chris Cenac amongst others. These players are also in the top 10 rankings in the NIL list as per On3.

But the number 1 player in HS basketball NIL valuations, AJ Dybantsa will miss out on the Allen Iverson tournament. “Iverson Classic All-American selection AJ Dybantsa will begin his tenure at BYU prior to Iverson Classic Week. This means he will not be eligible to play in the All-American game. AJ has our full support and we are proud to have him as a part of 2025 All-American Class. We look forward to seeing him make history on and off the court.” Let’s remind you about his previous performances, which is unheard of.

 

The 6-foot-9 forward dominated the Iverson Classic, scoring 31 points in a tight win over The Patrick School (N.J.). That was not it; in the next game against Western Reserve Academy (Ohio), AJ Dybantsa dropped 41-point points. No wonder he’s the top recruit in the 2026 class. Speaking about top recruits, even Kiyan Anthony has MVP performance.

During the Spalding Hoophall Classic against AZ Compass Prep, Kiyan led the charge. The Sunday afternoon became more eventful after his game-high 17 points. LeBron James

too chimed in with praise for his ‘nephew’. Apart from James’ family, Melo also shared a family bond with Allen Iverson.

Allen Iverson sending love to the Melo family

When Kiyan announced Syracuse as his next destination, many from the hooping community were delighted. Even AI was part of that community. As he wrote, “Wow! So Proud! @kiyananthony @lala @carmeloanthony.” His bond with Carmelo Anthony began during their time in Denver. Even though that was for a short time, the relationship is still strong.

Melo shared the Allen Iverson post and added, “Family.” Meanwhile, Kiyan’s mom too gave flowers to the 76ers legend. La La added, “The 🐐!!! Family!!!” The Knicks legend and Bubba Chuck weren’t just any other duo on the court. For Melo, Iverson wasn’t just a superstar — he was a mentor who truly got him.

On his 7PM in Brooklyn podcast, Melo once said, “He [Iverson] was the only one I could look up to because I felt like he was the only one who understood my dynamics and what I was dealing with and what I was going through and still have to be someone of elite on a daily basis.” So, for Kiyan too, this is a huge opportunity to hoop in front of his father’s mentor.