5 red flags for Kiyan Anthony if Carmelo’s son chooses Syracuse Orange

Kiyan Anthony is finishing his senior year at Long Island Lutheran High School and is touted as one of the best shooting guards in his class.

According to On3 Recruits' Joe Tipton, Anthony will announce his college decision during the Nov. 15 episode of his father Carmelo Anthony's web series at 7:00 p.m. ET in Brooklyn. Despite receiving offers from multiple programs, Kiyan has reportedly narrowed his options down to Auburn, Southern California and Syracuse, where his father attended college.

While there's still a long way to go before he suits up for a college team in 2025, here's a closer look at some potential red flags if Kiyan Anthony eventually suits up for the Syracuse Orange.

5 red flags if Kiyan Anthony chooses the Syracuse Orange

#1. Big shoes to fill in his father's alma mater

Choosing Syracuse would be an intriguing decision for Kiyan, as it would mean stepping into a legacy his father left behind.

Carmelo Anthony had one of the most iconic freshman seasons in NCAA history at Syracuse, winning Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four, leading the team to a national championship in 2003 and earning a retired No. 15 jersey.

The elder Anthony left after his freshman season, eventually becoming a 10-time All-Star, six-time All-NBA and a one-time scoring champion over 19 NBA seasons with the Denver Nuggets, New York Knicks, OKC Thunder, Houston Rockets, Portland Trail Blazers and Los Angeles Lakers.

While his father does not want him to play a one-and-done year with Syracuse, Kiyan will be faced with immense pressure heading into his freshman year. With the great achievements set by his father in his lone year with the Orange, the younger Anthony is expected to match or exceed those records.

#2. High expectations to turn around program's recent performance

Kiyan Anthony's arrival to Syracuse would come with high expectations.

Syracuse has only made one Final Four appearance since joining the ACC in 2013 and has missed the last three NCAA tournaments. Head coach Adrian Autry had a decent first season with the Orange, notching a 16-10 record but tallied an 11-9 standing in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Orange lost in the second round of the ACC tournament and opted not to participate in the NIT Tournament.

If Anthony could help revive the program, it would bring much-needed excitement to this historic team.

#3. Style of play and coaching fit

Under Autry, Syracuse has emphasized the ball-screen motion for their offensive scheme. The Orange also alluded to a man-to-man playstyle as their base defense while still mixing in the zone at times to catch opponents off guard.

Anthony may find that Auburn or USC aligns better with his preferred style, potentially giving him a more suitable developmental environment. USC focuses on fast-paced ball movement and effective spacing with priority on 3-point shooting, while Auburn thrives on quick transition with strong inside play.

#4. Competition for playing time with 2025 commits

While Anthony is one of the names to watch out for in the 2025 season, the star guard will face competition heading into his freshman year in the collegiate arena.

The Orange have multiple seniors and graduate students in their 2024-25 roster, forcing Syracuse to add more weapons. So far, the Orange has secured three verbal commitments from Anthony's draft class – power forward Sadiq White Jr., wing Aaron Womack and combo guard Luke Fennell.

While Anthony plays a different position, he might be forced to play off his natural role as a shooting guard, as his 6-foot-6 frame could also give him point guard and small forward duties. Moreover, Syracuse also has a deep guard rotation, forcing him to grind his way to see playing time on the hardwood.

#5. Limited networking and marketing opportunities

While Syracuse has an established presence in New York, Kiyan Anthony might consider moving into major markets like Los Angeles, Florida and Texas.

With NIL (Name, Image and Likeness) opportunities being the craze among college athletes lately, a large market could give him more access to brand partnerships and a stronger social media presence.

Anthony has already inked NIL deals with WME Sports, PSD Underwear, Nerf and the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation, putting his NIL valuation at $1.1 million as per On3. While he has already secured big deals despite not playing in the collegiate scene, he will likely be given more offers if he plays in large market teams and highly ranked teams in the NCAA.

Where do you think Kiyan Anthony should choose to play his college ball? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.