5 NBA Legends Whose Kids Are Making Waves in High School
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The NBA has made a massive move in the long run with the $76 billion TV rights deal. And it should when the future looks so bright. The former NBA players who once turned heads worldwide with their performances have kids who are now in high school. And just like their fathers, these kids are making a splash. Carmelo Anthony’s son, Kiyan Anthony, has already made a name for himself by catapulting his NIL valuation to nearly $1.1 million and committing to Syracuse. But he is just a teaser of the bigger picture.
There are other NBA players’ talented kids who are leveling up and worth knowing about in case you want to stay ahead of others. The high school twins who have quickly skyrocketed to fame are Matt Barnes’ twins.
Matt Barnes’ twins were inspired by Kobe Bryant
Barnes’ former teammate Kobe Bryant was the one who influenced the twins, telling them that they needed to work harder to get into their desired college and then go pro. The sophomores Carter and Isaiah Barnes haven’t looked back since. Playing for Crespi Carmelite High School, Carter averaged 7.3 points, while Isaiah averaged 8.5 points in their freshman year.
Both combined to drop a massive 39 points to lead the Celts against Lincoln High School. Their father has been guiding the two through every step. “He’s preached so much to us. He’s preached mental toughness, defense, offense, consistency, body language, even playing without the ball. For this, it’s out of state. Big crowd. A lot of people trying to get in your head, but he always said, ‘Tune it out, don’t let them get in your head,’” Isaiah said about his father.
USA Today via Reuters
The twins saved their brother Carmani’s life the moment they were born, and now, the teenagers are headed to Duke University. Their father, Carlos Boozer, made history with the Blue Devils by winning an NCAA championship in 2001. The twins are following the same path. Cameron has announced his commitment to Duke University.
Cameron is considered the No. 1 prospect in the nation and has shown his best in events like the Nike EYBL Peach Jam. Playing for Columbus High School, he averaged 21.1 points per game in 2023.
Equally talented is his brother, Cayden. What sets Cayden apart from his teammates is his impressive defensive game and basketball IQ. Averaging 14.2 points and 5.6 assists per game in 2023, he has great playmaking abilities. Both brothers are also looking forward to a pro career.
Has Alijah Arenas surpassed his father?
Agent Zero’s daughter, Hamiley Arenas, who plays for Notre Dame, dropped 22 points against Venice Gondoliers. Her father is proud and so is her brother Alijah, who is said to have NBA potential, as Arenas claimed. We don’t doubt his claims. Playing for the Chatsworth High School in California, the shooting guard is the fourth-top recruit in the Class of 2026 as per ESPN.
Hitting 53 points in a game in the regional semifinals, he broke his father’s record of 50 points. While the young Arenas has yet to defeat the retired NBA player since he keeps ducking, Alijah has made his family proud. The consistency is seen when he dropped 55 points against Prescott High in a game. He has offers from Alabama, Kansas, Texas, and UCLA as well as Arenas’ alma mater, the Arizona Wildcats.
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Apart from Alijah, another name that is making waves is Tajh Ariza.
Trevor Ariza’s son Tajh Ariza is exceptionally good
Playing 18 seasons in the league, Trevor won the championship in 2009 with the Lakers. Before that, he led Westchester High School to the California State Championship. Following in his father’s footsteps, Tajh is now playing for Westchester High School.
He has battled against young Arenas quite a few times. In Chatsworth’s 58-56 win over Westchester, Ariza scored 14 points. As per the 247Sports national ranking, Ariza is in 6th position and also boasts an impressive NIL valuation. He is also one of the top contenders for the Naismith Boys’ High School Player of the Year.
Another star in the spotlight is LeBron James’ youngest son, Bryce James.
LeBron James’ son Bryce James is talented
LeBron James’ elder son, Bronny, has already entered the pro league, while the Los Angeles Lakers star himself is in his 22nd year. His youngest is also gearing up for the battle. The 17-year-old plays for Sierra Canyon High School. The 3-star recruit has exceptional 3-point shooting abilities.
Bryce has offers from Ohio State and Duquesne. He might head to his brother’s alma mater as well. He has continued to build an impressive resume. Bryce is undoubtedly among the players mentioned above to keep an eye on in the future.
