Kiyan Anthony’s First Official Visit to USC: Highlights and Insights

Kiyan Anthony, the son of NBA superstar Carmelo Anthony and renowned actress Lala Anthony, recently shared an exciting glimpse into his college journey through a vibrant Instagram post. Kiyan, showcasing his potential future with the University of Southern California (USC), donned the iconic cardinal and gold jersey while capturing a memorable moment alongside his supportive parents during their campus exploration.

In a spirited caption reading “Fight on?”—referencing USC’s celebrated fight song—Kiyan hinted at the prospect of joining the Trojans’ esteemed basketball program. As one of the top high school recruits in the nation, Kiyan has already made a name for himself, currently holding the impressive rank of 28th overall in the 2025 class according to 247Sports.

Recognized as a four-star shooting guard, he has garnered significant interest from elite colleges, collecting offers from over 21 schools. His recent visit to USC is merely one chapter in an extensive collegiate adventure, as he is set to explore other institutions, including Syracuse, Florida State, and Rutgers this October.

While many fans naturally speculate that Kiyan might gravitate towards Syracuse—where his father famously led the team to an NCAA championship in 2003—the young athlete emphasizes his desire to carve out his own identity. In an insightful interview with ESPN’s Myron Medcalf, Kiyan articulated that his father never pressures him to choose Syracuse simply because of the family legacy.

“My father has accomplished so much at Syracuse, yet he understands that I am my own person,” Kiyan stated. “At the end of the day, I must make my own decisions.” He elaborated that even though he trains regularly at Syracuse, it is not a requirement for him to attend—that choice rests entirely on his shoulders. “If I genuinely want to go to Syracuse, then that’s what it is. But he’s never going to push me to follow his footsteps.”

Kiyan’s aspirations don’t stop there; he’s also on the radar of numerous powerhouse programs including Tennessee, Michigan, Maryland, Indiana, Ohio State, Auburn, and Arizona State, expanding his options as he navigates this pivotal time in his life.

The support from Kiyan’s parents, particularly from an icon like Carmelo, undoubtedly shapes his experiences—yet it’s his own ambition and determination that drives him forward. As he embarks on this journey to find the right fit for his collegiate career, Kiyan stands ready to create his own legacy in the basketball world, regardless of his illustrious lineage. Whether he ultimately dons the jersey of a storied program or opts for a different path, one thing is clear: Kiyan Anthony is not just riding on his father’s coattails; he’s committed to establishing his own remarkable story on and off the court.