"No cheat days" - Kiyan Anthony admires LeBron James' remarkable longevity in NBA
As he continues to mull his college options, high school basketball star Kiyan Anthony, NBA legend Carmelo Anthony's son, recently highlighted his biggest NBA influences. That includes his father's longtime friend, LA Lakers superstar forward LeBron James.
Kiyan, a four-star recruit from New York's Long Island Lutheran High School, continues to gain buzz entering his senior season. Ranked No. 40 on the ESPN 100 for the class of 2025, Anthony narrowed down his college options to six schools last month.
Those include Auburn, Florida State, Ohio State, Rutgers, USC and his father's alma mater, Syracuse. Ahead of his highly anticipated commitment decision, the offensive-minded wing spoke with NBA insider Brandon "Scoop B" Robinson on Tuesday.
Anthony provided insight into numerous NBA stars whose playstyles he admires, most notably Philadelphia 76ers star forward Paul George. However, when it came to James, Anthony raved about the 20-time All-Star's unprecedented longevity.
James is getting set to enter his record-tying 22nd season. Unlike most players whose careers span 20-plus seasons, he has maintained a star-caliber level, coming off his record-extending 20th All-NBA selection.
According to Anthony, James' fitness regimen is second to none.
"Just how much money and time he puts into his body," Anthony said. "Every day, he don’t got no cheat days. Him being in the gym every day for all of these years, not letting up, not one bit. I don’t think a lot of people could do that."
James signed a two-year, $101.4 million maximum contract extension this offseason, with a player option for the 2025-26 season. So, he should play for at least two more seasons, likely putting him on the verge of crossing paths with Anthony in the NBA.
Also Read: Kiyan Anthony breaks down what draws him to Paul George's game
Kiyan Anthony on drawing inspiration from LeBron James' son, Bronny James
During his interview with Brandon "Scoop B" Robinson, Kiyan Anthony also lauded LeBron James' son, Bronny James. According to Anthony, seeing Bronny overcome adversity to get drafted No. 55 by the Lakers in this year's NBA draft inspired him.
James suffered cardiac arrest at practice last year, later undergoing a procedure to treat a congenital heart defect. However, he fully recovered, completing his freshman season at USC en route to hearing his name called on draft night. Thus, James can make history by playing alongside his father in the NBA next season.
"It’s definitely really cool," Anthony said. "It just shows that anybody could do it. I’m coming up next, and I could do it. Definitely happy for him and definitely congratulations to him."
Like James, Anthony will likely face immense pressure to live up to his family name. However, he appears ready for the challenge.
Watch: Carmelo Anthony’s son Kiyan Anthony grooves with AJ Dybantsa and others during fun-filled photoshoot