Carmelo Anthony’s son, Kiyan, is making waves in the basketball world as he embarks on his freshman year at Syracuse University. His decision to join the same program where his father launched his illustrious career raised eyebrows, leading to discussions across various media platforms. Nevertheless, Kiyan is embracing the expectations that come with his legacy.
Kiyan Anthony’s Freshman Season at Syracuse
The Syracuse Orange will open their regular season against Binghamton on November 3. Kiyan understands the pressure he faces as the son of a Hall of Famer. “The pressure would have been there regardless,” Kiyan remarked during a recent media day. “I can’t run from it. I’ve just got to embrace it.”
Legacy and Motivation
Kiyan trains at the Carmelo K. Anthony Basketball Center, named after his father. Surrounded by tributes to Carmelo, he feels motivated to carve out his own identity. “It’s super surreal, coming in here every day and seeing my dad’s name,” he said. “But that only motivates me to work hard every day.”
Program Outlook and Expectations
- Kiyan, standing at 6-foot-5, is known for his scoring ability and versatility on the court.
- He graduated from Long Island Lutheran High School as the top recruit in New York and the No. 32 recruit nationally.
- This year, Syracuse hopes to end a four-year NCAA tournament drought.
Under the guidance of Coach Adrian Autry, Kiyan joins a talented freshman class that includes Sadiq White, a top-20 prospect, and Luke Fennell, an Australian sharp-shooter. The team also features returning players J.J. Starling and Donnie Freeman, along with six key transfers.
Starting Out Strong
Kiyan will debut in an exhibition game against the University at Buffalo, where he anticipates valuable playing time. “We’ve got athletic guys and shooters. I think my game is an ideal match for whatever lineup Coach Autry puts out there,” he said.
Family Support and Commitment
Carmelo Anthony plans to watch his son’s games, balancing his role as an NBA studio analyst. Kiyan expressed his appreciation for Syracuse being close to home and the family-oriented atmosphere. “Dad loves the place and talked to me about what it meant to him,” Kiyan said, emphasizing his father’s supportive approach in making this decision.
Handling Pressure
Prepared for the challenges ahead, Kiyan is aware of the scrutiny that comes with his family’s legacy. His experiences in high-intensity environments have equipped him to handle negativity in the sport. “I’ve seen all the negative comments … I know what to expect,” he noted.
Ultimately, Kiyan Anthony aims to honor his family’s name while forging his own path in basketball. He is more than ready to face the legacy and expectations that come with being Carmelo Anthony’s son.
