When you think of a father-son duo lighting up an arena packed with 20,000 fans, LeBron and Bronny James probably come to your mind first, right? Lately, they’ve been all over the headlines, especially with Bronny dropping a career-high performance for the Lakers. But they’re not the only ones making waves. Another father-son pair is keeping their names on the front page, though with a different story. And on this occasion, the dad is retired, and the son is dominating the NCAA. Yep, we’re talking about 10-time NBA All-Star Carmelo Anthony and his rising star son, Kiyan Anthony.
Kiyan and Carmelo Anthony have more in common than just a last name. Both know how to own the court and intimidate opponents just by showing up. But the biggest thing in common—Kiyan is walking the path his dad once paved. Just like Carmelo, he started his hoops journey at Syracuse University. And he’s already stacking up wins.
Over the weekend, he snagged MVP honors after leading his team to victory at The Throne. It’s one of the biggest high school tournaments in the country. He went off for 25 points, snagged five boards, and dished three assists (just two turnovers) as Long Island Lutheran edged out Allen High School (Texas) 71-68. Looks like Anthony name is not going to go away anytime sooner.
Now, Kiyan is making history at Syracuse, the same place where his father, Carmelo, set the bar sky-high. Back in the day, Melo defined what a one-and-done season should look like. In just one year, he led Syracuse to its first-ever NCAA championship in 2003, averaging 22.2 points and 10 rebounds per game. That performance cemented him as a consensus All-American and arguably the best one-and-done player college basketball has ever seen. Fast forward to today, Kiyan is carrying that same mindset. Different eras, same philosophy: don’t wait for opportunities. Create them.
And now, Carmelo Anthony is heading back to where it all started, Syracuse University. Syracuse University chose Carmelo Anthony to address the Class of 2025, creating a full-circle moment as his son, Kiyan, prepares to join the Syracuse Men’s Basketball team that same year.
Carmelo will deliver the 2025 commencement address on Sunday, May 11, at 9:30 a.m. at the JMA Wireless Dome. And yes, it’s official! Syracuse Men’s Basketball confirmed the news on their X (formerly Twitter) account with a heartfelt post: “See you at the Dome on May 11, @carmeloanthony! ” Looks like Syracuse is gearing up for a legendary homecoming!
See you at the Dome on May 11, @carmeloanthony!
https://t.co/FU1pWp7NOt pic.twitter.com/PH0nmNfyyS
— Syracuse Men’s Basketball (@Cuse_MBB) April 1, 2025
Syracuse University welcomes Carmelo Anthony with open arms
Syracuse University is gearing up for a legendary homecoming as Carmelo Anthony returns to inspire the next generation. “Carmelo Anthony played a pivotal role in one of the most storied moments in Syracuse University history,” said Chancellor Kent Syverud. Back in 2003, his leadership helped the Orange clinch their first NCAA championship, forever etching his name in the school’s legacy. Now, he’s coming back to share his journey.
“We are honored to welcome Carmelo back to campus to inspire and share his journey with our graduates, their families, and the entire University community at this year’s Commencement ceremony,” Syverud added.
But you would be completely wrong if you think this is just a victory lap. Anthony’s return is a message to future generations. From college standout to NBA legend, his journey is built on hard work, ambition, and chasing opportunities. And when he steps onto the stage at the JMA Wireless Dome, he won’t just be giving a speech. Mark my words, he’ll be proving that greatness starts with a single shot.
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