The 2025 Jordan Brand Classic lived up to its star-studded legacy Friday night in Washington, D.C., as top high school talent from around the country put on a show at CareFirst Arena. But one name stood out above the rest: Kiyan Anthony.
The Syracuse commit and son of NBA legend Carmelo Anthony stole the spotlight and claimed MVP honors after dropping 26 points and leading Team Air to a 141-124 victory over Team Flight.
In a game known for launching the careers of future NBA stars, Kiyan Anthony made it clear that the Anthony name still carries weight, and skill, on the hardwood.
Kiyan Anthony Living up to Father’s Legacy
Anthony’s stat line speaks for itself: 26 points on 11-of-15 shooting, along with five rebounds, all while showing poise and maturity beyond his years. He knocked down several shots from deep, putting his smooth shooting stroke and impressive range on full display.
On the break, he thrilled the crowd with his athleticism, including one soaring dunk that drew immediate comparisons to his father.
Anthony’s all-around performance helped Team Air pull away late in the second half, as they overwhelmed Team Flight in a high-scoring affair that had fans on their feet throughout.
With the MVP trophy in hand, Anthony etched his own name into Jordan Brand Classic history, a game where his father once stood atop the stat sheet. Back in 2002, a young Carmelo Anthony scored 27 points in the inaugural Jordan Brand Classic, just one more than his son’s 26-point performance.
Though Kiyan Anthony came up just shy of matching his father’s mark, he cemented the Anthony family legacy in the event. His performance felt like a passing of the torch, reminding the basketball world that greatness can indeed run in the bloodline.
KIYAN ANTHONY WINS MVP OF THE JORDAN BRAND CLASSIC AFTER DROPPING 25 POINTS 🏆@kiyananthony I @JordanClassic pic.twitter.com/ed74pENYZ8
— SportsCenter NEXT (@SCNext) April 19, 2025
Anthony wasn’t the only player who impressed Friday night. AJ Dybantsa, the nation’s No. 1 recruit and a BYU commit, scored 25 points and grabbed seven boards for Team Flight, displaying the physical tools and scoring prowess that have scouts buzzing.
But it was Anthony’s combination of efficiency, confidence, and leadership that ultimately earned him MVP recognition.
His Syracuse commitment adds another layer to the story, as he looks to follow in his father’s footsteps not only in terms of talent, but also in representing the Orange at the collegiate level.
KEEP READING: Kiyan Anthony Jokes About Father Carmelo’s Off-Court Skills in New David Yurman Ad
With his MVP performance at the Jordan Brand Classic, Anthony has firmly positioned himself as a name to watch heading into college basketball’s 2025 season. Expectations will be high, but Friday’s showing proved he has the tools to thrive under pressure—and under a legacy that could easily feel too large to fill.
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