Kiyan Anthony stepped into the spotlight to defend Bronny James against nepotism accusations about the Los Angeles Lakers’ rookie. The Syracuse commitment used his father’s podcast to strongly defend his peer.
Who is his father? None other than Carmelo Anthony.
Kiyan, 18, didn’t hold back while addressing critics who question Bronny’s NBA credentials. Kiyan’s bold statements reveal the brotherhood among second-generation basketball stars facing intense online criticism.
Kiyan Anthony Defends Bronny James on Father’s Podcast
Kiyan made his strongest public statements supporting Bronny in a June 26, 2025, episode of “7PM in Brooklyn with Carmelo Anthony.” The Syracuse-bound guard used his father’s podcast platform to address criticism against the Lakers’ rookie.
“I kinda felt bad for him cause that’s my guy,” Kiyan said during the show. “He doesn’t speak a lot; he’s not going to go on the Internet and say what he’s gotta say.”
Kiyan understands what mental pressure Bronny faces behind closed doors. “But like deep down behind closed doors, he probably was going through it,” Kiyan said with clear empathy for his peer’s situation.
Kiyan directly challenged critics questioning Bronny’s NBA abilities. “He’s nice that boy,” Kiyan said. “People say he’s not good or just there because of his pops.
“But I think he’s really nice and I think he has a chance to prosper in the NBA,” Kiyan added. His endorsement carries weight as one of basketball’s top prospects heading to play for the Orange next season.
Kiyan’s defense comes as Bronny faces ongoing nepotism accusations after being drafted 55th overall by the Lakers. Critics question whether his selection was merit-based or influenced by his father LeBron James’ superstar status with Los Angeles.
The Lakers’ rookie has struggled with limited NBA minutes, averaging 2.3 points per game across 27 appearances. However, his G League performance tells a different story with over 21 points per game for the South Bay Lakers.
Kiyan Understands the Pressure of Basketball Legacy
As Carmelo’s son, Kiyan knows the challenges facing second-generation NBA prospects. His support for Bronny stems from shared experiences of carrying famous basketball surnames while building individual careers.
“At the end of the day, you’re still going to get the backlash no matter what you do,” 2025 NBA Draft No. 2 overall pick Dylan Harper of the San Antonio Spurs said during the podcast. Kiyan agreed that criticism affects all children of famous athletes regardless of their approach.
Kiyan has embraced his father’s legacy while working to establish his own identity. “I don’t really got a problem with it to be honest,” Kiyan said. “I feel like anybody would want to be Melo’s son.”
The future Syracuse player recognizes that intense scrutiny comes with having a legendary father. Kiyan’s mature response involves accepting criticism while focusing on personal development and supporting peers facing similar challenges.
Kiyan’s basketball resume includes being named the Jordan Brand Classic MVP after scoring 26 points. His performance nearly matched his father’s 27-point record in the same showcase game from 2002.
Kiyan’s willingness to defend Bronny publicly shows leadership beyond basketball skills. His voice carries influence as he prepares for his own transition to college basketball at Syracuse.
