There’s always fascination with how the offspring of a pro-athlete would fare if they followed in their parents’ footsteps. Most recently, we’ve seen Bronny James drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers, the same team his father, LeBron James, plays for.

Meanwhile, James’ 2003 NBA Draft mate, Carmelo Anthony, is now watching his son, Kiyan, play at his alma mater, Syracuse University. Those of us who have been tapped in have seen the work the younger Anthony has put in. Melo has been helping his son get ready for this moment for years now, though it wasn’t covered as much as Bronny’s ascent.

All a part of the plan

The incremental, slow-burning training that was Kiyan’s up until this moment is paying off. He simply looks ready for this level of play. But what’s lending itself to his smooth transition to playing in the NCAA? For starters, Anthony’s physical gifts suit today’s game well. He stands 6’5″, and at 18 years young, he still has a few years to potentially grow taller. But playing at a height of 6’5″ and above allows you to be able to be useful on both ends of the floor. Being switchable on defense is imperative for any team today.

When it comes to Anthony’s development as a player, none of the credit goes to his coaches or program either. His father has been preparing him for this journey since his childhood. It just so happens that with Anthony retiring a few years ago, he’s had even more time to give his son his gems. What you’ll see in Anthony’s play may not be all his father’s style, but there are certainly flashes of it. Since he has been able to put in so much time since childhood, he has already entered college with a “bag,” so to speak.

Averaging 10.9 points per game and shooting 44% from the field, he’s off to a very dependable start as a guard for Syracuse. Typically, you’d want your guards’ percentage averages to be in the mid-40s and up range. For Anthony to already be a decently efficient player speaks volumes to his preparedness in his freshman year.

The future is ready

The possibilities are endless for the NBA legend’s prodigy. There’s no telling just how long he’ll stay in college to play ball with so many collegiate players looking to cash in on NBA fame early. However, with NIL deals being passed around like hotcakes at IHOP, it may incentivize some players to stay in school a bit longer. Of course, the looming fear of potential injury is another reason why players choose to go pro earlier. But I do believe we can be looking at a national player of the year in Anthony. As long as he is given a little more time to develop, he can certainly become must-see TV by next season.

Does he have Hall of Fame potential as yet? That much remains to be seen. But I can see that he is dedicated. As long as he’s dedicated, others will be willing to pour into his development as well. Maybe we can revisit this next season, same time, same place? I think so.