Guided With the Same Killer Mentality, LeBron James’ ‘Nephew’ Admits Bigger Challenges Ahead: “Shoes I Need to Fill”

As an avid basketball player and enthusiast, LeBron James has been a constant presence in the basketball world. Even more, after the end of his 20th NBA season. This offseason, he’s taken on a new role – that of a mentor and coach for his son’s basketball games, guiding from the sidelines. This summer, alongside James, former Los Angeles Lakers guard Rajon Rondo was often seen at the games, showing unwavering support for his son and LeBron’s son Bryce.

However, Rondo isn’t the only NBA star prioritizing their presence at their son’s games. One notable figure is former Knicks star Carmelo Anthony who similarly instills that killer mentality in his son.

The top NCAA prospect has a former NBA player as a father and guide

Despite not winning an NBA championship, LeBron James’ good friend Carmelo Anthony had a tremendous career that showed off his extraordinary talent. A recent YouTube video by Overtime Sports featured Kiyan Anthony, the son of Carmelo. In the documentary, which accompanies Kiyan to his high school basketball games, he describes the unusual experience of having his father, an NBA icon, serve as his mentor.

Being the child of an NBA player presents both obstacles and opportunities, which Kiyan openly highlighted in the video. He stressed the complex nature of his path while acknowledging the expectations that come with such a legacy. “Being a child of an NBA player, it’s a lot that comes with it. It’s a lot of challenges, but at the same time, it’s a lot of opportunities,” Kiyan said.

He expressed his feelings about his father’s retirement, stating that it’s a great feeling to have his father fully present at his games now that he’s no longer in the league. He further added, “It’s a great feeling, he [has] been thinking about this for a while not being in the league. So, him finally retiring and being able to come [to] support me it’s a great feeling. I’m ready to take on the challenge and really step into the shoes that I need to fill.” 

By the sound of it, Kiyan looks ready to embrace the challenges ahead and step into the shoes that he believes he needs to fill, inspired by his father’s basketball legacy.

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Meanwhile, LeBron has always maintained a close-knit relationship with Melo, and Dwyane Wade considering them brothers rather than just friends. James always applauds both Anthony and Wade’s kids’ accomplishments, affectionately referring to them as ‘nephews’.

The bond between LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony

Carmelo Anthony and LeBron James are not only NBA legends but also close friends who have shared a bond for over two decades. Their friendship predates their NBA careers, as they were friends in high school. Even though they only recently became teammates on the Los Angeles Lakers, their camaraderie is evident in their joint family vacations and the striking parallels in their careers.

Upon Melo’s retirement announcement in May 2023, James paid tribute to his longtime friend and former teammate. In a heartfelt video message, LeBron hailed the 39-year-old as “One of the greatest players I’ve ever seen play.”

With guidance from Melo and King James and the killer mentality they possess, expectations are natural. Can Kiyan overcome these expectations in the future? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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