As Kiyan Anthony, the 17-year-old basketball prodigy, embarks on his journey toward college life, his mother, La La Anthony, finds herself with a surprising sense of relief. While Kiyan’s decision to follow in his father Carmelo Anthony’s footsteps by choosing Syracuse University as his college destination may seem like an exciting move for basketball fans, it holds a deeper significance for La La. This decision not only supports Kiyan’s career aspirations but also provides La La with the opportunity to stay closely connected with her son.
Why Did Kiyan Choose Syracuse?
Kiyan’s college choice of Syracuse may seem like a natural path, given his father’s legendary ties to the university, but for La La, it was also about proximity. Located just 280 miles from their home in New York, Syracuse allows La La to be more actively involved in her son’s life. Unlike colleges on the West Coast, such as USC or Auburn, Syracuse offers a manageable distance for La La to maintain the close relationship she cherishes with her son.
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La La Anthony’s Deep Bond with Her Son
La La’s relationship with Kiyan goes far beyond basketball. While Kiyan is often celebrated for his basketball skills, his mother places a greater emphasis on the kind of person he is. “Everyone talks so much about him as a basketball player and all his success… but I’m here to talk about him as a person,” La La shared. She describes him as “the most incredible human being” she knows, emphasizing how close they are: “He’s my best friend. He’s my everything. We hang out all the time. I love being with him. He’s just a genuine person who always likes looking out for other people.”
For La La, her biggest wish for Kiyan is not just athletic success but for him to grow into a kind, respectful person. “He’s not going to be playing basketball forever,” La La reflected on the 7PM in Brooklyn podcast. “I want him to just continue to be a standup, amazing person because that’s going to take him through life.”
What Advice Does La La Give Kiyan?
La La’s advice to Kiyan focuses on the importance of character over success on the court. She has always stressed that being a good person will guide Kiyan through all aspects of life, no matter where his basketball career may take him. This grounded, pure bond between mother and son is something that Kiyan treasures. In fact, his recent tattoo serves as a permanent reminder of how much his mom means to him. The tattoo features an image of La La, symbolizing the deep affection and respect he holds for her.
Kiyan Anthony Follows His Mother’s Guidance
Kiyan himself acknowledges that La La’s advice holds weight. “If she tells me something, I listen because she’s been through it all,” he shared on Unapologetically Angel, a podcast hosted by Angel Reese. The mutual respect between Kiyan and his mother is evident, and it’s clear that her words of wisdom resonate with him.
Angel Reese’s Advice to Kiyan Anthony
As Kiyan steps into the spotlight, he has also received guidance from others in the world of college athletics. One notable voice of advice comes from Angel Reese, a standout player in college basketball. Reese shared her own insights with Kiyan, particularly about managing relationships while navigating the college sports scene. “Even in college, you need to be careful with these women,” Reese warned. “One slip-up… you’ve seen the stories?”
Reese didn’t stop there. Offering practical tips for staying out of drama, she suggested that Kiyan make sure to “Make guests leave their phones at the door” to maintain privacy. She also advised him to keep his circle small and even consider having non-disclosure agreements in place for visitors. Both La La and Carmelo have likely shared similar advice with their son about keeping his personal life private.
How Kiyan Is Prepared for College Life
With the support of his parents, Kiyan is well-equipped to handle the challenges that come with being a high-profile athlete in college. While he’ll certainly have to balance the pressures of being a student-athlete, his family has given him a solid foundation of advice, both practical and personal. La La’s unwavering support, Carmelo’s basketball legacy, and Angel Reese’s straightforward guidance form a strong network for Kiyan as he enters this exciting new phase of life.
FAQs: Kiyan Anthony and His College Decision
- Why did Kiyan Anthony choose Syracuse University? Kiyan chose Syracuse University because of its strong basketball program, as well as the opportunity to stay closer to home, just 280 miles away from New York.
- What advice does La La Anthony give Kiyan about life? La La emphasizes the importance of character over basketball success. She wants Kiyan to grow into a good person who can navigate life beyond sports.
- What advice did Angel Reese give Kiyan? Angel Reese advised Kiyan to be cautious in his relationships and personal life while navigating college athletics. She suggested keeping a small circle and protecting his privacy.
- How close is Kiyan to his mother La La Anthony? Kiyan shares a deep bond with his mother. La La describes him as her best friend and emphasizes their strong, loving relationship beyond his basketball career.
- What is Kiyan Anthony’s recent tattoo about? Kiyan’s recent tattoo is a heartfelt tribute to his mother, featuring an image of La La, showing how much she means to him.
