As Ball State University tight end Kam Anthony entered the world, the NBA Finals played in the background. His family welcomed their first child with cheers, not just for his birth, but for the game, as well. Anthony has been surrounded by sports since birth. Literally.

“My dad’s always told me the story that the NBA Finals were on when I was born, and he took me home and watched the finals,” Anthony said. “It’s pretty cool, I’ve always been a ball

player.”

During his senior season at Hamilton-Southeastern High School, Anthony won his football program’s Most Improved Player award.

“For me, that was a huge accomplishment,” Anthony explained. “That was one of my goals going into my senior year, and it made me feel awesome. My hard work paid off.”

His family encouraged him to take part in athletics when he was young, and they continue to support him throughout his Division I football career.

As Anthony grew up, he had a former college athlete living in his home. Anthony’s father, Stephen Anthony, played football at Indiana University and pushes his son to be the best player possible.

“One of my goals in the next couple of years is to win the John Mackey Award,” Anthony added, “and my dad was like, ‘Go do it, you have the ability, you have the confidence to, go do it.’”

An unintentional but constant reminder of his family’s support follows Anthony anytime he steps on the field. His jersey number, 85, was also his father’s number.

“That was just handed to me when I got here last year as a freshman, but my dad did play at Indiana University,” Anthony said. “He wore that number throughout his whole career, so it’s pretty cool wearing his number again. It’s kind of a full-circle moment for my family.”

A family-oriented lifestyle impacted Anthony’s decision to commit to Ball State.

“With home being so close, that did sway my decision in coming here a little bit,” Anthony said, “just because my house is only 45 minutes away from campus, and I could shoot home whenever.”

The support system doesn’t just stay at home, but also travels to Ball State. The family’s energy can boost Anthony’s morale when he is homesick.

“It’s also really good when my family comes to the game,” Anthony added. “If I’m really missing my family, they’ll just come see me sometimes. That’s definitely a blessing.”

Being eager for the new season before it’s even started is a way Anthony’s family emphasizes how much they care about his success and following his dreams.

“My grandma has always been there for me,” Anthony said. “She’s already planned out what games she’s going to come to watch me play this year.”

Because of his strong family values, Anthony tries to create a community for teammates who are far from home.

“I try to make it feel like a brotherhood,” Anthony explained. “We’re always going to be there for each other.”