The 2025 recruitment class, which includes the sons of two NBA legends, continues to earn plaudits. LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony have been good friends since high school. This bond extends to their children, with Bryce James and Kiyan Anthony sharing a healthy, competitive relationship often described as familial. While it has been months since both star kids played in the same tournament, their recent achievements have given their parents even more reasons to smile.

Bryce and Kiyan have landed on a star-studded list of top performers at the 2025 Hoophall Classic, as released by Paul Biancardi, the Recruiting Director for ESPN. While witnessing their kids follow in their footsteps is a proud feeling, being enlisted on a star-studded list just adds to it.

The list includes 20 of the best talents at the Hoophall Classic, including AJ Dybantsa, CJ Ingram, and Caleb Wiley, among others. Interestingly, Bryce and Kiyan aren’t the only NBA kids on this list. 2x All-Star and Olympic gold medallist Carlos Boozer’s twins, Cameron and Cayden, are also there. Biancardi captioned his post, “One of the nation’s biggest and best high school events is the Hoophall Classic. My Best performers.” 

Nevertheless, this isn’t the first time Bryce and Kiyan Anthony have participated in a major tournament. In October 2023, both players showcased their talents at the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League. But the best part wasn’t just their participation—it was LeBron James expressing excitement and support for both young athletes during the event.

The Hoophall Classic wasn’t any different. King James was once again front and center, celebrating his son’s standout performance before the release of the top performers list.

LeBron James praises Bryce while Kiyan Anthony shines in recent game

Bryce didn’t disappoint at the tournament held at the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts. Playing for Sierra Canyon High School, he contributed to an impressive 84-42 victory over Grayson High School. He finished with 12 points, five rebounds, and four assists.

It wasn’t just the numbers that stood out, but his overall presence on the court. As LeBron witnessed his son’s excellence, he took to his official X account. “Bryce James going crazy in the Hoophall Classic right now! Flame thrower,” James wrote. “So proud of you Maximus!!! I literally just shed a tear! PROUD POPS!!” he added.

No doubt, Bryce’s game is evolving, and his performance at the Hoophall Classic is just a glimpse of what’s to come. But he isn’t the only one doing wonders. Kiyan has also left his mark at the Hoophall Classic.

A couple of days ago, he posted a glimpse of himself hitting a three-pointer with the caption, “All eyes on 3.” In a recent matchup, LuHi won against La Lumiere 68-55, with Kiyan contributing 16 points to his team’s total.

Moving on, these two future basketball stars are making sure their parents can bask in their success. Whether it’s LeBron James praising Bryce or Carmelo Anthony cheering on Kiyan, the joy these fathers must feel watching their sons take these big steps on the basketball court is undeniable. Both Bryce and Kiyan are proving that they’re ready to step out from their fathers’ shadows and leave their own marks on the game.