LeBron James shared a heartfelt message the other day for Kiyan Anthony, the son of NBA legend Carmelo Anthony, after the freshman guard impressed in his college basketball debut for Syracuse University.

Kiyan, just 18, opened his collegiate career with a very strong performance reminiscent of his dad, obtaining 15 points, three rebounds, and three assists in the Orange’s 85-48 win over Binghamton. The moment marked not just a new chapter in his own basketball journey but a continuation of his father’s storied Syracuse legacy. That is why LeBron did not let that moment go unnoticed.

“Yessir Nephew!!!”: LeBron’s salute

Shortly after the game, LeBron took to his Instagram Stories to celebrate Kiyan’s debut, resharing a highlight clip and adding just two words:

“Yessir nephew!!!”

LeBron James on his IG

The brief but powerful message instantly caught everyone’s attention. Indeed, this is not the first time LeBron has publicly supported Kiyan, whom he affectionately refers to as “nephew,” as a nod to the close friendship between the James and Anthony families.

His support carried both vibes of pride and mentorship. It was a reminder that even in the world of elite basketball, family extends beyond bloodlines and can create a very close relationship.

A strong legacy connection

Kiyan’s debut carried a lot of symbolic weight, for the team and for the family as his father, Carmelo Anthony, led Syracuse to its first and only NCAA Championship in 2003 before becoming one of the most prolific scorers in NBA history.

Now, over two decades later, his son is the one carrying the heavy weight of the same orange jersey, while playing on the same court and matching the expectations that come with being “Melo’s kid.“

That LeBron – Carmelo’s close friendship just states the ongoing support that they have for each other’s family, as Carmelo has also praised Bronny James when he got to play with his dad. Fans saw this moment as a beautiful nod to friendship, mentorship, and legacy in professional basketball.