Kiyan Anthony defends Bronny James from criticism

Bronny James has always been in the spotlight. He was never a highly-touted prospect like his father, but being LeBron James’ son all but guaranteed him a spot in the league.

Of course, that didn’t come without criticism, especially given the way they handled his career. That’s why Carmelo Anthony’s son, Kiyan, went out of his way to defend Bronny in the ‘7 PM in Brooklyn’ podcast.

“It’s a new generation. Two totally different people even though that might be your kid,” Anthony said. “I felt bad for him cause like, that’s my guy. So, he doesn’t speak a lot, he not gonna go on the internet and say what he’s gotta say. But like, deep down behind closed doors, he probably was going through it.”

Kiyan Anthony says Bronny James could ‘prosper’ in the NBA

He went on to say that this has plenty to do with social media, adding that Bronny is actually a pretty good person and player who could have a bright future in the league:

Bronny James #9 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks to pass against the Dallas Mavericks during the fourth quarter at American Airlines Center on April 09, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.

“You’re seeing this every day. You’re on social media, you can’t even scroll twice without seeing a post with your name on it, and he probably talked to his pops about it, but at the end of the day, he’s nice that boy,” Anthony continued. “I think he really has a chance to prosper in the NBA.”

At the end of the day, that’s a two-way street. In the same way that people shouldn’t hate him because of his father, they shouldn’t root for him just because of his father, either. He’ll have to earn his stripes just like everybody else.