Kiyan Anthony entered college basketball as one of the most anticipated freshmen to watch since he joined the University of Syracuse. Ranked among the top guards in his class and carrying the weight of a last name that means a lot in Syracuse Orange and NBA history, there was plenty of attention on him before even playing.
Earlier this week, he showed he was worth the hype when he made his debut for the Orange, scoring 15 points, three rebounds, and three assists.
But today marked his first career start, and Anthony delivered big. The freshman guard finished with 19 points, three rebounds, and four assists in 29 minutes. For young players, the moment can be too much, but Anthony showed poise and remained humble off the court during post-game interviews.
Fans Are Reacting to Kiyan Anthony’s Humble Demeanor
In his post-game interview, Anthony said the following:
“Same mindset from the last game when I came in the second half and did what I did. Coach decided to put me out there with the first group and I went out there and provided, did what I can and I feel like we had a good game.”
When asked about building on his performance, he said about his performance:
“Little things like a couple of shots I could’ve made that I missed. Free throws, I missed three free throws, that’s unacceptable.”
🎥 @kiyananthony after scoring 19 in his first career start pic.twitter.com/CbPb4qsIq5
— Syracuse Men’s Basketball (@Cuse_MBB) November 8, 2025
The accountability and humility in his comments stood out to people on social media. Here’s how fans reacted.
One fan praised the way Anthony was brought up:
“I hope this kid has great success. His dad has done a fantastic job raising this young man. Props @carmeloanthony.”
I hope this kid has great success. His dad has done a fantastic job raising this young man. Props @carmeloanthony
— Chris Medina (@chrismedina120) November 8, 2025
Sure, Anthony played great, but he’s showing outstanding character for such a young player. The media have scrutinized Carmelo Anthony over the years for his attitude, but it is apparent that he has done an excellent job raising his son.
“Keep going young Jedi @kiyananthony,” relays this fan.
Like a young Jedi, Anthony is gifted but still learning, absorbing, and developing skills. His growth will be a journey, not something that needs to be rushed.
“I love his mentality, could always do better,” says this fan.
I love his mentality. “Could always do better”
— ドジャースのガイ・トニー (@DodgerGuyTony) November 8, 2025
The willingness to self-critique is a complex trait for people to possess. Anthony understands that he played well, but to take his game to the next level, he needs to focus on the small details.
“Really carrying the torch humble too,” says another commentator.
Not only is Anthony “carrying the torch” passed to him by his father, but he’s honoring it. Despite being Melo’s son, Anthony is on his own path.
Another fan says, “Excellent mindset. Let’s build on it!”
Excellent mindset. Let’s build on it!
— Matthew Owlett (@MatthewOwlett) November 8, 2025
Having a growth mindset is an excellent skill to possess. Anthony sees room for improvement, and he won’t get complacent in his work ethic.
Another user simply comments, “Stud.”
Anthony is a stud and will continue to be a great player for the Orange. It’ll be hard to fill his dad’s shoes, but he doesn’t need to. Anthony is on his own path, while still showing homage to his dad.
