Kiyan Anthony is making his parents proud. The champ is following in the footsteps of his father, Carmelo Anthony. He chose Syracuse for his college destination. And during his stint in his senior year, he delivered a classic performance. In his latest matchup, Kiyan showed why he was an upsetting snub at the McDonald’s All-American Game. And La La Anthony was quick to flaunt her son’s new accolade.

The 17-year-old was named the Nike Player of the Game in the matchup between Oak Hill and Long Island Lutheran. Taking to Instagram, she shared a snippet of the TV screen showing the game and wrote, “Nike Player of the Game @kiyananthony” along with a heart emoji. She is a proud mother and there can’t be a better Valentine’s surprise than this. She also wished, “Happy Valentines day.”

Kiyan finished the game with 15 points, shooting 6-of-13 from the field, along with 1 assist and 2 rebounds. Before the photos from game day, she also shared snaps and snippets of their Valentine’s Day celebration. La La had prepared a special bouquet for her mother as well. It seems like the family has a big celebration impending.

It was right around the beginning of his senior year, Kiyan announced that he would be joining Syracuse, not because of his father, but because of the coach and the team. He had offers from both USC and Auburn. He felt that it was a place where he would find like-minded teammates. Moreover, both his father’s alma mater and Kiyan are eyeing the championship. Melo won the NCAA championship in 2003. As for Kiyan, he wants to carve his legacy in his own way.

“I chose Syracuse because the coaches recruited me from day one. They really showed me they were recruiting me for who I was and that it had nothing to do with my Dad. I could see the vision with Sadiq (White) going over there and being one of the most athletic people in the class, an overseas guard coming, and the potential of seniors like JJ Starling and Chris Bell coming back,” Anthony said in a conversation with 247Sports.

He added, “Next, we just need a big man. From the vision and what they’re telling me my role could be, it all made sense. USC was right there with them I’m not going to lie. There was a point where I was about to choose USC but I kept talking with my parents and ultimately decided with Cuse.” He will also appear in Allen Iverson’s 2025 Iverson Classic. However, fans were upset over Kiyan’s snub from the McDonald’s All-American Game for one reason. After all, he had been impressive the entire year. 

Kiyan Anthony could have been selected for McDonald’s All-American Game

Many expected Kiyan’s name on the roster when the list of players was shared for the McDonald’s All-American Game. The reason might be the fact that he had to sit out several games due to his injury. In a matchup against St. Joseph’s Collegiate, he was fouled by Nate Blenman unintentionally and sustained a minor injury.

Fortunately, the injury wasn’t serious. He had a slight bruising on his tailbone, hamstring, and lower back. However, he was required to miss nearly a month full of games.

The final lineup included names from both the East and West Coasts for both 24 girls and 24 boys. Some of the notable names on the list are AJ Dybantsa, Alijah Arenas, Darryn Peterson, and Tounde Yessoufou from the West, which will be coached by Danny Broussard. Cameron and Cayde Boozer will also feature for the East, which will be coached by Herman Harried.