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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The week started off on an emotional note for Carmelo Anthony. He visited his alma mater, Syracuse University with nothing but celebration on his mind. Anthony had a couple of reasons to celebrate his return to Syracuse. The first reason is that the 2022-23 college ball season marks 20 years since Anthony helped Syracuse win the NCAA championship. However, the second reason seems to be more special for Anthony.

A member of the NBA’s 75th-anniversary team, Carmelo Anthony was a freshman during the 2002-03 NCAA season. However, he gave Syracuse the unimaginable. While shooting 45.3% from the floor, Anthony helped his team win their first-ever NCAA championship. Anthony spent only one season with the team. After his remarkable tournament-winning performance, he entered the NBA Draft. Now, the association between Anthony and Syracuse seems to have been passed on to the next generation.

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Carmelo Anthony returns to Syracuse University

When Carmelo Anthony visited Syracuse University to watch a basketball game, he was welcomed with open arms. The announcement said, “It was 20 years ago when this young man gave us the thrills of a lifetime.” Following this, Anthony waved at the crowd and loud applause echoed in the arena.

READ MORE: Mother of Carmelo Anthony?s Son La La Anthony Makes Heartbreaking Claim: ?They Won?t Even Let Me in Games Anymore?

Anthony expressed his happiness on Twitter. While posting pictures and videos of him in the Syracuse jersey, he said, “20 years!! What a journey it?s been. ?Cuse will always be a part of the story! Felt great to be back at home”?

Despite spending only one season with this team, the love Carmelo Anthony receives here knows no bounds. In 2013, his no.15 jersey was retired by Syracuse.

Additionally, Anthony never fails to express his gratitude to the school. Reports stated Anthony had donated a sum of $3 million towards the development of Carmelo K. Anthony basketball center. The university’s men’s and women’s teams would use this space.

Sweet homecoming

This homecoming is a little more special for Carmelo Anthony. Earlier in the week, it was announced that Anthony’s son, Kiyan Anthony was offered a scholarship from Syracuse. Kiyan stated that he is “beyond blessed” to receive this scholarship and follow in his father’s footsteps.

Having said that, Kiyan is still a sophomore in school. He has another solid 3 years left before he joins the Orange. Kiyan’s on-court performance has been impressive. It has already caught the eyes of some top schools.

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As per reports, he is currently rated as a 4-star recruit. Also, there is a scope for improvement. One thing’s for sure if Kiyan ends up at his father’s alma mater, all eyes and the pressure is going to be on him.

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Do you think Kiyan Anthony has the potential to be as good as his father Carmelo Anthony? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.