Cole Anthony is one of the most promising names in professional American basketball. Born on May 15, 2000, in Portland, Oregon, this 6’2″ (1.88 m), 185-pound (84 kg) point guard has stood out for his speed, court vision, and ability to create plays for himself and his teammates. The son of Greg Anthony, a former NBA player who spent over a decade in the league, Cole grew up immersed in the basketball world but carved his own path with determination and natural talent. In October 2025, at age 25, he is experiencing an exciting career transition, wearing the Milwaukee Bucks jersey and showing he is ready to shine even brighter. This article dives into the life, journey, and achievements of this athlete who represents the future of the point guard position in the NBA.
Childhood and Development: The Roots of Innate Talent
Early Years in New York
Cole Anthony entered the world in a sports-obsessed family. His father, Greg, was not only a former athlete but also a respected TV analyst, providing Cole with a privileged yet lesson-filled childhood focused on discipline. The family moved to Manhattan, New York, when he was young, and it was in this urban jungle that Cole began shaping his character. Living in a luxury apartment on the Upper East Side, he could have chosen an easy life, but Greg insisted on values like hard work and humility. “My dad always told me talent opens doors, but effort keeps them open,” Cole recalled in a recent interview.
Initially, Cole was more interested in baseball, inspired by his grandfather, but at age 10, in fifth grade, he traded the bat for a basketball. That’s when everything changed. Under private coaches and playing street ball against much older opponents, Cole developed impressive resilience. His first mentor, Steve Harris, coach of an AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) team, spotted the boy’s potential immediately: “He had court vision you can’t teach; it was like he knew where everyone was before even looking.”
Family Challenges and Unconditional Support
Life wasn’t all glory. In 2015, Greg Anthony faced serious personal issues, including allegations that impacted his media career. Cole, then 15, could have been shaken, but he used it as fuel. “It was a tough time, but it taught me to focus on what I control: my game and my effort,” he said years later. Support from his mother, Crystal, and older sister were also pillars. This solid family foundation helped Cole channel energy into the sport, turning adversity into motivation.
High School: From New York to Virginia, A Rapid Rise
Years at Archbishop Molloy High School
Cole began his school journey at Archbishop Molloy High School in Briarwood, Queens, New York. As a freshman, he was already a starter on the varsity team—rare for a 15-year-old rookie. He led the Stanners to the CHSAA (Catholic High School Athletic Association) state championship final, despite a narrow loss to Cardinal Hayes. His boldness on the court drew attention: he didn’t hesitate to challenge taller, stronger veterans.
In his sophomore year, Cole raised the bar. Averaging 20.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game, he was essential to the state title. Named to the All-CHSAA first team, he showed versatility, defending well and distributing the ball precisely. “I loved the pressure; it was like chess in motion,” he described about this phase.
His junior year brought legendary partnerships. Alongside Moses Brown, a future NBA player, Cole formed a devastating duo. His averages rose to 23.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 4.1 assists. Honors poured in: All-CHSAA, third-team All-USA by USA Today, and third-team MaxPreps Junior All-American. But it wasn’t just numbers; Cole learned to lead, motivating teammates in grueling practices.
Transfer to Oak Hill Academy: Historic Triple-Doubles
In 2018, seeking bigger challenges, Cole transferred to Oak Hill Academy in Virginia, one of America’s most storied basketball schools. His senior year was marked by an ankle injury that raised doubts, but he returned stronger. He led the team to a 31-5 record, posting unprecedented school averages: 18.5 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 10.2 assists—the first career triple-double average in Oak Hill history.
Awards? He won Virginia Gatorade Player of the Year and shone in national events. At the McDonald’s All-American Game, he posted 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 7 assists, earning MVP. He repeated the feat at the Jordan Brand Classic and Nike Hoop Summit. Ranked a five-star recruit, the top point guard in the 2019 class, and top-5 overall by ESPN and 247Sports, Cole was ready for the next level. “Oak Hill taught me to play against the best; every day was a battle,” he reflected.
College: The Tar Heels and Brilliance Interrupted by Injuries
Arrival at North Carolina: Record-Breaking Debut
In 2019, Cole chose the University of North Carolina (UNC) Tar Heels over options like Georgetown and Oregon. Under legendary coach Roy Williams, he arrived with high expectations. His debut was epic: 34 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists against Notre Dame, breaking the UNC and ACC (Atlantic Coast Conference) freshman scoring record. “I just wanted to show I belonged,” Cole said.
In his first weeks, he was named ACC Player and Freshman of the Week, averaging 27 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 4 assists in key wins. He had a three-game streak of 20+ points—unprecedented for a Tar Heels rookie. His on-court leadership inspired, and he quickly became the team’s heart.
Injuries and Resilience: The Triumphant Return
But basketball takes its toll. In December 2019, a right meniscus injury sidelined him for 4-6 weeks. Cole returned with fury, scoring 26 against Boston College. In February 2020, an eyebrow cut from an opponent’s elbow didn’t stop him; he kept playing with a bandage, showing grit.
Another honor: second ACC Freshman of the Week nod, with 22 points, 6 assists, and 3.5 rebounds in two wins. Season averages: 18.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4 assists in 22 games. Despite the team’s losing record (14-19, a first under Williams), Cole earned third-team All-ACC and All-Freshman Team. In April 2020, he declared for the NBA Draft, knowing it was time to go pro.
NBA Career: From Draft to Bucks, A Journey of Growth
Rookie Season with Orlando Magic: Adaptation and Explosions
Selected 15th overall by the Orlando Magic in the 2020 Draft, Cole signed in November. The pandemic bubble delayed everything, but he played 47 games in 2020-21 (34 starts), averaging 27.1 minutes, 12.9 points (39.7% FG, 33.7% 3P, 83.2% FT), 4.7 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 0.6 steals, and 0.4 blocks. Highlights? Four 20+ point games, including a peak of 37 against the New York Knicks—fifth-highest by a Magic rookie. Clutch shots against the Timberwolves and Grizzlies showed his ice-cold nerves.
Rise in 2021-22: Starter and Most Improved Candidate
In 2021-22, starting all 65 games, Cole exploded: 31.7 minutes, 16.3 points (39.1% FG, 33.8% 3P, 85.4% FT), 5.4 rebounds, 5.7 assists, 0.7 steals, and 0.3 blocks. He was in the Most Improved Player conversation, proving to be the engine of a rebuilding Magic.
Ups and Downs in 2022-23 and 2023-24: Injuries and Consistency
2022-23 brought 60 games (4 starts): 25.9 minutes, 13.0 points (45.4% FG, 36.4% 3P, 89.4% FT), 4.8 rebounds, 3.9 assists. An oblique injury in October and a suspension for an altercation in December tested his patience, but he returned strong.
In 2023-24, 81 games off the bench: 22.4 minutes, 11.6 points (43.5% FG, 33.8% 3P, 82.6% FT), 3.8 rebounds, 2.9 assists. In April 2023, he signed a three-year, $39 million extension—a vote of confidence.
2024-25 with Magic: Playoffs and Surprise Trade
In his final Magic season, 67 games (22 starts): 18.4 minutes, 9.4 points (42.4% FG, 35.3% 3P, 82.3% FT), 3.0 rebounds, 2.9 assists. In April 2025, he shone with 26 points, 3 rebounds, and 6 assists in a 120-95 play-in win over the Atlanta Hawks, clinching playoffs. Playoff averages: 10.2 minutes, 2.2 points in 5 games.
In June 2025, the twist: traded to the Memphis Grizzlies for Desmond Bane and draft picks. But in July, he opted for a buyout and signed with the Milwaukee Bucks, seeking minutes and a title. “I want to win; Milwaukee is the right place,” he declared.
Playing Style: The Court Maestro
Cole Anthony is the modern point guard prototype: lightning-quick with evasive dribbles and peripheral vision reminiscent of legends like his father. His strength lies in playmaking—he sees passes others don’t—but he also shoots well from deep. Defensively, he uses agility for timely steals, though he needs to bulk up against bigger wings.
What sets him apart is unselfishness: he elevates the team. On the court, he’s a maestro, dictating tempo and timing. Critics praise his work ethic; he spends hours on film, refining his game. Weaknesses? He sometimes forces shots under pressure, but at 25, that’s part of maturing.
Compared to peers like Jalen Brunson or De’Aaron Fox, Cole has more athletic versatility but needs consistency in high minutes. His basketball IQ, inherited from his dad, makes him valuable in complex offenses.
Achievements and Iconic Moments: Awards That Speak for Themselves
From high school, accolades pile up: McDonald’s All-American, Jordan Brand Classic, and Nike Hoop Summit MVP; first-team All-USA by USA Today; Virginia Gatorade. At UNC: third-team All-ACC and All-Freshman.
In the NBA: million-dollar extension and iconic games like his 37-point rookie outburst. Internationally: gold at the 2018 FIBA Under-18 Americas (14.3 points, 4.2 assists). In 2025, his Magic play-in performance was epic, saving the season.
Personal Life: Family, Faith, and Philanthropy
Off the court, Cole is private. He’s been dating a childhood partner for years, prioritizing privacy. His Catholic faith, from his Molloy education, guides decisions. He’s active in social causes, like youth basketball programs in New York, inspired by his own journey. “I want to give back what I received,” he says.
Friends describe him as funny and loyal, with humor that eases training tension. Hobbies? Hip-hop and video games, but always in moderation—Greg taught balance.
Recent Updates: The New Era with the Bucks in October 2025
In July 2025, after the Grizzlies buyout, Cole signed with the Milwaukee Bucks, drawn by Giannis Antetokounmpo and title chances. “This aligns with my goals: win and grow,” he said in September, calling Giannis “my big brother.”
The 2025-26 season started turbulent. On October 25 against the Toronto Raptors, Cole exploded for 23 points (9/14 FG, 2/5 3P), 4 rebounds, 7 assists, and 2 steals in 27 minutes, key in a 122-116 win. His playmaking was crucial, especially in the fourth quarter with 9 points and decisive passes.
But a setback: illness sidelined him on October 26 against the Cleveland Cavaliers. He returned as probable on October 28 vs. the New York Knicks and was confirmed available. With Kevin Porter Jr. out with an ankle injury, Cole took on more responsibility, splitting minutes with Ryan Rollins. Bucks coach Doc Rivers praised: “He stabilizes our point guard rotation.”
On October 6 in preseason vs. the Miami Heat, Cole controlled the game with skillful dribbles. Through October 31, 2025, early averages: around 15 points, 5 assists in limited games, showing quick adaptation. On a $12.9 million salary, he’s a key second-unit piece, with rumors of more minutes if he keeps the pace.
Analysts see Cole as the Bucks’ X-factor. “He backed up Giannis’ bold offseason move,” said a FOX Sports reporter. His unselfishness and finishing on drives impress, though a “glaring flaw”—turnovers under pressure—needs polishing.
In practice, Cole integrates well, putting in extra work with Giannis. “Milwaukee feels like a career step forward,” he confided to The Athletic in September. With the season in full swing, fans expect him to lead the bench to deep playoffs.
Cole Anthony’s Future: A Legacy in the Making
At 25, Cole Anthony is in his prime. With five seasons of experience, he has the baggage to shine. With the Bucks alongside stars, he can elevate to another level—imagine regular triple-doubles or individual awards. His dream? A championship ring and, who knows, All-Star status.
Cole inspires young point guards: prove your worth, regardless of background. With family by his side and hunger for wins, he’s building a lasting NBA legacy. In October 2025, as the Bucks face the Golden State Warriors on October 31, Cole is ready for more epic chapters. Basketball thanks talents like him—fast, smart, and unforgettable.
