In the early chapters of its season, Syracuse Basketball is on a mission to elevate its game and set a new standard. To reach that next level, a team needs players who turn potential into performance and exceed expectations. For the Orange, that player has been William Kyle III.
Despite sharing the floor with returning stars JJ Starling and Donnie Freeman, and the son of a legend in Kiyan Anthony, Kyle has quickly defined his role. The six-foot-nine forward has staked his claim in the paint, leading SU in blocks and rebounds. He’s also been a key contributor on the offensive end, averaging 12 points and 2.5 assists. And when it comes to energy plays, his alley-oop dunks have turned the Hill into “Lob City ‘Cuse.”
The senior has made early noise on the ACC leaderboards, ranking among the top ten in rebounds and blocks. His consistent energy and presence in the paint have set the tone for Syracuse on both ends of the floor. That effort hasn’t gone unnoticed by head coach Adrian Autry, who said, “He’s been tenacious in my opinion. He’s used his speed, his strength, and his motor.”
The Bellevue West product spent time at South Dakota State and UCLA before transferring to Syracuse in March. His best college season came as a sophomore at South Dakota State, where he averaged 13.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game as a starter. He’s also the only player on SU’s roster with NCAA Tournament experience, having danced with UCLA last season.
Given his unique experience compared to the rest of the roster, and strong play early on, Kyle could prove to be a crucial piece in what Syracuse aims to build this season.
