Friday was a good day for everyone affiliated with Syracuse University. Kiyan Anthony’s commitment was not just a local story about the son of Carmelo Anthony following in his father’s footsteps; it was a national story involving a highly-respected figure in the world of basketball.
There’s something significant about Anthony choosing the cold, frigid winters of Central New York over the sunny, warm environment of Southern California with USC near the midst of Hollywood stars and near beautiful beaches.
First, let’s break down what Anthony can offer on the court. He is a 6’5” shooting guard, regarded as one of the best shooters in his class. Anthony is a four-star recruit and is ranked #32 in the Class of 2025, according to 247 Sports. He sits three spots behind Sadiq White, a 6’8” forward who is already committed to Syracuse. For perspective, Bronny James was a five-star recruit, but his situation with his father, LeBron, can be compared to the father-son duo of Carmelo and Kiyan.
Another plus for Syracuse is that Carmelo has insisted that Kiyan should avoid the one-and-done path to the NBA; instead, he wants him to focus on development. Therefore, it can be inferred that Anthony will be in the Dome for more than just one season.
Now, stepping aside from basketball, Anthony’s commitment brings national attention to Syracuse. Expect more national broadcasts when he steps foot on the SU campus, and his almost one million Instagram followers will only enhance that visibility.
The name, legacy, and recognition of Carmelo Anthony—after whom the SU basketball practice facility is named—will significantly and immediately help put Syracuse hoops back on the map in search of its first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2021.
Once Kiyan Anthony arrives on campus, SU basketball might be back to what many fans once considered the standard.
