Adrian Autry has been publicly backed by one of his players, Kiyan Anthony, as pressure continues to mount on the under-fire coach following Syracuse’s 85-76 loss to Miami on Saturday.
Pressure has been mounting on Autry in recent days following three consecutive losses to Boston College, Virginia Tech and Miami, respectively. It has been a difficult start to Autry’s third season, with the Orange posting a 12-8 record and 3-4 in ACC play so far this season.
Despite significant summer investment in players such as Kiyan Anthony, Donnie Freeman and Sadiq White Jr., the 53-year-old has struggled to produce results. He is also in danger of missing three straight NCAA tournaments as Syracuse’s coach.
Saturday’s loss to Miami saw fans voice their frustration, with chants of “Fire Autry” heard from Syracuse’s student section.
Despite the growing unrest, several players publicly backed their coach, including Kiyan Anthony, the son of program legend Carmelo Anthony, who called the boos “uncalled for.”
“If a lot of people are booing in the stadium, especially a stadium like the Dome, you’re going to hear it,” Anthony said. “But as a player, when they say ‘fire your coach’ and stuff like that, we definitely hear it. You can’t attack a man’s character like that. He’s a person before everything. So no matter how we’re doing in the game, whether we’re losing or winning, I feel like that’s uncalled for, especially from the fans. And, you know, whatever happens, happens, but I just think that’s uncalled for.”
That sentiment was felt across the locker room, with players from Naithan George to Donnie Freeman defending Autry. It’s evident being around Kiyan that he is wise beyond his years. He carries a mature, professional, and kind-hearted attitude that is impressive for a kid in his freshman year.
Kiyan Anthony puts Miami defender on poster in Syracuse loss
Anthony hit the highlight reels in Syracuse’s loss by putting a Miami defender on a poster with a two-handed slam. Anthony played 21 minutes after seven games in which he logged over 17 minutes.
The Hall of Fame son is still trying to find consistent minutes. He hasn’t exploded offensively nor found instant chemistry with the team’s best players, but he continues to fill the secondary role well. Even in low moments, he has bounced back impressively, showing maturity far beyond his years, leaving no doubt about his quality and seemingly limitless potential.
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