Learning the Ropes
Carmelo Anthony, the NBA veteran known for his scoring prowess, recently opened up about his son Kiyan's first year with the Syracuse Orange. Rather than labeling the stint a disappointment, the elder Anthony framed it as a necessary stepping stone for an 18‑year‑old navigating the rigors of Division I basketball.
Kiyan logged eight points and 1.4 rebounds per game, numbers that barely scratch the surface of his impact. Yet the young guard displayed moments of brilliance, including three consecutive games where he broke the 15‑point barrier, hinting at the potential that runs in the family.
A Lesson, Not a Loss
In a candid interview, Carmelo explained that the freshman campaign was less about wins and losses and more about adaptation. "Every 18‑year‑old needs room to grow," he said, emphasizing that the experience gave Kiyan a clearer grasp of college‑level competition and his own role within it.
The veteran also touched on the coaching change, noting that new head coach Gerry McNamara will take the reins for the upcoming season. McNamara, who previously served as an assistant, brings a fresh philosophy that both father and son believe will unlock more consistent minutes and a broader offensive role.
Looking ahead, Kiyan is set to return to Syracuse for his sophomore year, armed with a deeper understanding of the game and a renewed sense of purpose. Carmelo remains confident that his son's trajectory is upward, and that the lessons learned on the court will translate into stronger performances when the next chapter begins.