To see where the future of college and professional basketball is headed, you need to look at its past. Many top prospects today are the sons of former NBA stars. These young athletes follow in their fathers’ footsteps while making their mark.
As they prepare for their next steps in basketball, they combine family legacy with their hard work and talent. Here are five standout prospects from the classes of 2025 and 2026 leading the charge.
Dorian Hayes
Another exciting basketball prospect is Dorian Hayes, son of former NBA player Chuck Hayes. Chuck Hayes is a beloved figure in Kentucky basketball history. He had a standout college career before playing more than a decade in the NBA. Today, Chuck serves as the Golden State Warriors basketball operations director, which connects him to the sport.
Dorian has inherited many of his father’s qualities, including defensive prowess and exceptional court awareness. These attributes have helped him make a name for himself in the class of 2025. Dorian’s performances have caught the attention of several colleges, earning him scholarship offers from schools such as George Mason, Murray State, and New Mexico State.
Additionally, Dorian’s upbringing around NBA stars like Steph Curry and Klay Thompson has given him unique opportunities to learn and grow. This exposure to top-tier talent has been instrumental in his development. For those following FanDuel NCAAB, Dorian is a player to keep an eye on as he continues to rise through the ranks.
Cameron and Cayden Boozer
Twin brothers Cameron and Cayden Boozer are no strangers to the basketball spotlight. Their father, Carlos Boozer, enjoyed a 15-year career in the NBA, highlighted by two All-Star appearances and an NCAA championship at Duke in 2001.
Cameron Boozer, standing at 6-foot-9, is a power forward ranked as the No. 2 overall player in the 2025 recruiting class according to the 247Sports Composite. Known for his versatile playing style and strong presence on the court, Cameron has visited several top-tier schools, including Kentucky, Miami, Florida, and Duke.
On the other hand, Cayden Boozer, a 6-foot-3 guard, is ranked No. 17 in the same class. He brings different skills, focusing more on guard play and perimeter shooting. Like his brother, Cayden has also been making the rounds on college visits, considering many of the same prestigious programs.
While there is speculation that the twins might end up at the same college, they keep their options open and may decide separately.
Kiyan Anthony
Kiyan Anthony, the son of NBA superstar Carmelo Anthony, is making a name for himself in basketball. Carmelo, who retired in 2023 after a 19-year career, now spends much of his time supporting Kiyan and attending his games. His experience and advice have been invaluable to Kiyan’s growth.
Kiyan, a 6-foot-4 shooting guard, is one of the top prospects for the class of 2025. He’s ranked No. 33 overall by the 247Sports Composite and has taken official visits to Florida State and Syracuse, where his dad played. Kiyan credits much of his development to his father’s guidance on scoring, defense, and overall gameplay.
Kiyan appreciates his dad’s advice and applies it to improve his game. He’s not just living off his father’s legacy—Kiyan has shown impressive talent, including a good shooting range and strong defense, making him a well-rounded player.
As Kiyan continues his basketball journey, his mix of natural talent, his father’s mentorship, and his dedication to the sport make him a standout prospect to watch. With Carmelo’s support, Kiyan is following in his father’s footsteps and forging his path in basketball.
Jermaine O’Neal Jr.
Jermaine O’Neal Jr. is carving out his path in the basketball world, guided by the experience of his father, Jermaine O’Neal. The elder O’Neal jumped straight from high school to the NBA, embarking on an 18-year career with six All-Star selections and a Most Improved Player award.
Jermaine Jr., a 6-foot-5 small forward, has made a name for himself with impressive performances at prestigious camps such as the Pangos All-American Camp and NBA Top100 Camp.
He is drawing interest from schools like USC, Texas, and Tennessee. Jermaine Jr. attributes his basketball IQ and understanding of the game to the lessons imparted by his father, emphasizing the importance of learning from his dad’s vast experience.
Tajh Ariza
Tajh Ariza, son of NBA champion Trevor Ariza, is quickly making a name for himself as one of the top basketball prospects for 2026. Trevor Ariza enjoyed an impressive 18-year NBA career, celebrated for his defensive skills and clutch performances in critical moments.
Tajh, a 6-foot-7 wing, is ranked No. 11 overall in the 2026 On3 Industry Ranking. Standout performances on the court have marked his rise through the ranks. During his high school season, Tajh demonstrated remarkable skill and athleticism, solidifying his reputation as a player to watch.
His success continued with solid showings on the Nike EYBL E15 Circuit, where he consistently impressed scouts and coaches with his versatility and competitiveness.
Tajh attributes his development to his rigorous training regimen and his father’s invaluable guidance. Trevor Ariza’s experience and insights have been instrumental in shaping Tajh’s approach to the game.
Final Conclusion
The future of college basketball looks bright with these five talented sons of NBA legends. Each brings unique skills and experiences shaped by their fathers’ illustrious careers. As they continue to develop and make their names in the sport, the legacy of their NBA fathers will undoubtedly provide both inspiration and high expectations. Keep an eye on these young athletes as they lead the charge and strive to make their mark on the basketball world.
