Despite Father’s Age-Old Bond With LeBron James, Drake’s Humility Left 16YO NCAA Prospect Starstruck and Lost for Words

LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony have remained close since they were teenagers. Both LeBron and Carmelo were heralded as generational superstars who were destined for greatness from the minute they first appeared on the scene. The tale of their rise from high school superstardom to the NBA has enthralled basketball fans all over the world. And while LeBron James’ legacy continues to unfold, it is now time for the next generation to step onto the scene.

Bronny James stepped into the collegiate basketball scene after pledging his allegiance to the USC Trojans. On the other hand, Kiyan Anthony, Carmelo Anthony’s son is a high school basketball player. Recently, the NCAA prospect revealed his star-struck encounter with the rapper Drake.

Kiyan Anthony meets Drake

The rising high school basketball star Kiyan Anthony is creating ripples in the sports world. In the ‘2025 ESPN 60’ ranking for the class of 2025, the shooting guard from Long Island Lutheran High School has risen to the 52nd position. He received significant recognition from national analysts and scouts over the spring and summer on the AAU circuit for his contributions to Team Melo in the Nike EYBL competition.

Kiyan Anthony’s profile has risen as a result of his stellar performance on the court, and the number of scholarship offers he has received has significantly increased. The 2025 four-star shooting guard received an offer from Syracuse basketball in November, which increased the demand for his skills.

But Syracuse is not the only esteemed institution to acknowledge Kiyan’s basketball talent. Numerous prestigious universities have extended offers to him. Among them are West Virginia, Maryland, Dayton, UCF, Michigan and Manhattan.

Meanwhile, the 16 YO recently revealed his surprising encounter with the Canadian rapper Drake. And oh, was he left starstruck!

During a recent episode of a new six-part docuseries, The Evolution, Kiyan Anthony revealed his experience of meeting Drake. He said, “No, it wasn’t the first time, but it was the first time in a minute. I didn’t know he was going to recognize me like that and come up to me. And I didn’t yeah it was just… I was panicking. I’m not going to lie.”

Drake told Kiyan Anthony to “keep going.” “That was definitely one of the biggest points of the summer,” Anthony said.

Read More: They Don’t Give Me Credit”: $30 Million Worth Hollywood Star La La Anthony Shows off Her Skills With Sceptic Comment on Carmelo Anthony and Son Kiyan

Meanwhile, how are things looking for Bronny James after his sudden collapse?

Is Bronny James returning soon?

In a statement released in August on behalf of the James family, it was revealed that Bronny James’ cardiac arrest on July 24 was caused by a congenital heart defect. According to the statement, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center conducted a thorough review of Bronny’s condition under the direction of Dr. Merije Chukumerije.

The Mayo Clinic and Atlantic Health/Morristown Medical Center, both under the supervision of Drs. Michael J. Ackerman and Matthew W. Martinez, respectively, did additional evaluations after this initial exam. The combined results of these tests suggested that a congenital heart defect was the most likely reason for the cardiac arrest. The James family spokesperson expressed optimism about Bronny James’ full recovery and eventual return to the world of basketball despite the seriousness of this illness.

The sports world excitedly anticipates what this young basketball prodigy, who has already displayed amazing resiliency and talent, has in store for the future!

Watch This Story: After a worrying cardiac arrest, Bronny James’ $6.2 million evaluation might take a major hit

What are your thoughts on Kiyan Anthony and Bronny James’ friendship? Let us know in the comments below!