The global scale of sports regularly yields moments that astound and please both fanatics and observers. Recently, the basketball community bore witness to such a moment, as a generational clash unfolded on the hardwood. In an unexpected turn of events, former NBA superstar Carmelo Anthony found himself facing off against his own flesh and blood, his son Kiyan Anthony, in a friendly 1-on-1 basketball showdown.
Former New York Knicks star Carmelo Anthony might still have a game at age 39, but his son, high school basketball star Kiyan Anthony, seems to be leaving him in the dust.
Carmelo Anthony’s (lack of?) dominance on the court
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The recent and intriguing event of Carmelo Anthony and his son Kiyan playing 1-on-1 basketball has generated discussion. A clip of their matchup, shared by Kiyan’s mother, La La Anthony who made a heartbreak claim a few months ago, showcased a surprising outcome: Kiyan’s lead was substantial throughout the contest.
The video highlights included Kiyan effortlessly breezing past his father for an easy layup and nailing a string of challenging step-back 3-pointers. The younger Anthony’s skills surprised people on the internet, being better than his father’s.
This match wasn’t just about a son outplaying his father; it also revolved around a claim Kiyan made earlier in his overtime docuseries The Evolution. He boldly stated that his father couldn’t guard him on the court, and the 1-on-1 showdown seemed to validate that assertion.
Kiyan vs Melo 👀
Ep. 5 of Kiyan’s show drops SATURDAY 🍿 (via @lala) pic.twitter.com/b3KEXzhVgv
— Overtime (@overtime) August 24, 2023
It’s clear that Kiyan Anthony’s high school basketball career is on the rise. As a shooting guard for Long Island Lutheran High School, he has earned the 52nd spot in ESPN’s ‘2025 ESPN 60’ rankings for the class of 2025.
Also Read: ?Keep Me Alive?: 39YO Carmelo Anthony Gave Michael Jordan?s Last Superstar a Major Responsibility
Fans were left in pure awe in their reactions, saying, “Kiyan gonna be insane in the nba,” for this extraordinary father-son faceoff.
Kiyan gonna be insane in the nba
? Big Gucci ???? (@curlyyheadsage) August 24, 2023
Baby MELO got that clip ????
? PSN: ICEMAN_PRIMO24 (@CoachCousin) August 25, 2023
That boy cold! ?
? Torrey L. Adams (@tactboogie) August 25, 2023
Lol this is classic!
I can?t wait for the day my son can beat me too but for now its still ?Cook City?!! No free wins ova here lol lol
? GameFather.eth ???? (@bjackson215) August 24, 2023
Kiyan gonna get his daddy redemption and win a championship his first year in the league.
? Riverman (@lordnabi) August 25, 2023
Only a year ago, notably, Anthony Jr. didn’t view the NBA as a viable option, feeling uncertain about his skills.
Dreams are taking flight for Kiyan Anthony
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His growth over the last year has given him confidence in school basketball capabilities within the US. The path ahead is long, but with his improving skills and his father’s unwavering support, Kiyan seems to be on track.
Carmelo Anthony’s recent retirement allows him to share daily workouts with his aspiring basketball star son. The court is only one aspect of their relationship, as Kiyan’s basketball journey illustrates its growth. Kiyan became more confident in his sophomore year and saw himself as a strong competitor nationally.
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Interestingly, Kiyan doesn’t see his father as the greatest of all time (GOAT) in basketball. The admiration is mutual, though, as ‘Melo’ proudly regards his son as his most significant accomplishment.
As Kiyan’s skills continue to grow and his aspirations remain high, the basketball world watches with anticipation to witness the rise of a new star with a legendary name backing him all the way.