In a captivating episode of Complex that quickly spiraled into a spirited family debate, La La Anthony and her son, Kiyan Anthony, shared a moment that blurred the lines between personal admiration and professional greatness in basketball.
The core of their exchange? The question of who holds the title of the Greatest Of All Time (GOAT) in basketball, is a topic that has ignited countless discussions worldwide. Yet, this wasn’t your average sports debate—it was a familial jest that revealed much about the dynamics within the Anthony household.
La La, the 41-year-old actress and television personality, initially steered the conversation towards a heartwarming declaration. She named her son, a budding basketball player himself, as her personal GOAT. Her reasoning was deeply personal and touching.
“Cause for nine months of my life, I threw up every single day… So that is why, seeing you now on the court and being so amazing make your mom so proud and you are my GOAT basketball player,” she revealed.
However, the warmth of maternal pride was soon overshadowed by a playful yet poignant exchange. Kiyan, in his moment to name his basketball GOAT, opted for Paul George over his father, NBA star Carmelo Anthony.
“My GOAT is Paul George… Kobe [Bryant], Paul George… Carmelo Anthony. He’s the GOAT. There are levels though,” Kiyan stated, sparking La La’s playful disbelief. “The fact that you didn’t say your dad first is crazy to me,” she retorted, a statement that underscored the blend of surprise and amusement.
The Anthonys’ Banter and Kiyan’s Affection for Paul George
This light-hearted familial banter sheds light on the Anthonys‘ approach to the game and each other. The dialogue, filled with jests and jabs, illustrates the competitive spirit that runs deep within the family.
Kiyan’s preference for Paul George, and his reasoning tied to championship victories, showcases a younger generation’s perspective on success and legacy in sports. Yet, it’s clear that beneath the surface of their debate lies a profound respect and love for Carmelo’s contributions to the game.
Interestingly, this is not the first time Kiyan has publicly declared his admiration for Paul George. His consistent praise for the NBA star, alongside rookie Brandon Miller’s similar sentiments, highlights a generational shift in basketball idols.
Paul George’s response to such admiration, noting the honor and responsibility of being a role model for the younger generation, encapsulates the impact a professional athlete can have beyond their on-court achievements.
La La and Kiyan Anthony share the GOAT party they've been to. 🪩 #GOATTalk pic.twitter.com/SJLNElCvgJ
— Complex (@Complex) February 27, 2024
Beyond the Court, It’s Family First
The Anthonys’ discussion transcends the typical sports debate, venturing into the realm of family dynamics, generational perspectives, and the evolving nature of legacy in sports.
While La La’s astonishment at her son’s ranking order brings a light-hearted tone to the debate, it also emphasizes the importance of family bonds and the personal connections we share with our heroes—whether they are found on the basketball court or within the four walls of the home.
In the end, the Anthony household remains a testament to the enduring impact of sports on family ties and personal growth. Whether in agreement or playful dispute, their conversations echo the sentiments of many households around the world, where sports serve as a backdrop to life’s most meaningful moments.
As the Anthonys continue to navigate the world of professional basketball, their familial exchanges remind us that at the heart of every debate, discussion, or jest, lies a deeper connection that sports can uniquely forge.
Source: Sportsrush