Like father, like son, Kiyan Anthony is set to continue the Orange legacy. The 6’5″ shooting guard had committed to Syracuse University, following in the footsteps of his father Carmelo, who led the Orange to their only NCAA Championship in 2003. With basketball royalty in his DNA, expectations are high for the Class of 2025 standout.
Recently, Kiyan Anthony stirred basketball conversations by revealing his all-time Syracuse starting five. The son of Orange legend Carmelo Anthony selected a lineup featuring recent stars alongside his father’s championship teammate, sparking passionate debates among fans who noted the absence of several Syracuse basketball icons from his selections.
Breaking Down Kiyan’s All-Syracuse Dream Team
When asked about his all-time Syracuse starting five, Kiyan listed Dion Waiters, Michael Carter-Williams, Carmelo Anthony, Gerry McNamara, and after brief consideration, named Arinze Onuaku as his center to complete the lineup.
Kiyan Anthony’s all-time Syracuse starting five 🍊@kiyananthony | @Cuse_MBB pic.twitter.com/T8B9rdtxNg
— SportsCenter NEXT (@SCNext) May 1, 2025
Michael Carter-Williams starred at Syracuse from 2011-2013, leading the Orange to the 2013 Final Four before becoming the 11th overall pick and NBA Rookie of the Year. Dion Waiters was a dynamic sixth man who helped Syracuse reach the 2012 Elite Eight before being drafted 4th overall.
Gerry McNamara, a four-year starter, was a clutch shooter on the 2003 championship team alongside Carmelo Anthony, who led Syracuse to its only NCAA title as a freshman. Arinze Onuaku anchored the middle for Syracuse from 2005-2010, known for his rebounding and defense.
Syracuse fans on social media had strong opinions about Kiyan’s list. Many pointed to missing legends from earlier eras. “No mentions of Etan Thomas by anyone is wild. He was so good at the Cuse,” wrote one fan.
Another commented “Damn Carmelo Anthony gotta go through the Syracuse history with the young fella… Ron Seikaly, Derrick Coleman, John Wallace, Pearl, Dave Bing…”
The most common criticism centered on omitting Derrick Coleman, with fans calling his absence “invalid” and insisting he “has to be in there.” Some fans were more forgiving, noting, “He’s a young buck y’all, don’t beat him up too bad about it. He learn the history of the greats once he gets there!”
KEEP READING: Top 10 NIL Deals in Men’s College Basketball
As Kiyan prepares to create his own Syracuse legacy, his list reveals a connection to more recent Orange history. While Syracuse diehards may question his selections, his choices reflect the program’s enduring excellence across generations.
When he steps on campus, he’ll have the opportunity to immerse himself in the full depth of Syracuse’s rich basketball tradition and perhaps revise his all-time five with some classic Syracuse legends.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
