The Long Island Lutheran shooting guard has big things planned for his college basketball career. After the big college commitment announcement, Kiyan couldn’t resist his wish to join in to witness Syracuse’s anticipated matchup with rivals, Texas Longhorns on Thursday. Carmelo Anthony and Kiyan were spotted sitting together at the Barclays Center for the 2024 Legends Classic. In the midst of supporting the Syracuse Orange, Kiyan also made a promise for next year.

When asked about what his Syracuse Orange teammates can expect from him, Kiyan assured that “a good teammate. Somebody who’s ready to come in and play and kill. Someone who’s trying to win (and can do) anything they can do for their team.”

After months of anticipation, Kiyan revealed that he would be joining his father’s alma mater to carve his own legacy. The 17-year-old was commended for his performance at the Nike EYBL, where he averaged almost 20 points. He also showed up for the SLAM Summer Classic Volume 6. Considering his incredible performance so far, it’s natural for the team and fans to get hyped up. 

“Just going up there and seeing the environment, the family that when I went up there, they welcomed me like no other school. So I feel like along with the Cuse, the players that’s there, the players that’s coming in. All of that played the part and you know ultimately chosen Cuse,” Kiyan said after the game.

Unfortunately for him, Syracuse lost the game against the Longhorns 70-66 on Thursday. Nevertheless, the Long Island Lutheran guard, who is now officially in the family, even had high praise for Orange team head coach Adrian Autry. The team had approached Kiyan since his sophomore year.

Kiyan Anthony spoke about coach Adrian Autry

From the beginning, the No. 9 shooting guard has been interested in what the Syracuse Orange coaching staff is doing. With some fresh faces joining the team, Coach Autry is looking forward to rebuilding the roster, which might help it achieve its goal. 

Speaking of the HC to Interview magazine, Kiyan said, “Yeah, I feel like he’s (Autry) young. This is only his second year, so he’s going in there trying to rebuild Syracuse [back] to what everybody knows Syracuse basketball should be. And I feel like me, along with the other freshman that’s coming in, [can] help bring it back to the top. That’s the final goal.” 

The power and excitement were evident in Kiyan, who had joined his father for the Texas vs. Syracuse game. Melo also had his own reasons to once again rejoice in watching Syracuse battle the Longhorns for the first time since he defeated the team in the Final Four in 2003. Unfortunately, this time, Syracuse did not win.

However, Kiyan and Melo appeared thrilled to be back at a Syracuse game. Next year, Kiyan will also be on the court to show his skills. Kiyan is clearly determined to lead the team towards its goal and do what it takes. While the Long Island Lutheran guard is eager to showcase his skills, he will have high expectations to meet in the coming years.