Kiyan Anthony’s long-awaited collegiate debut came earlier than anyone expected. The freshman guard was thrust into action less than three minutes into Syracuse’s season opener against Binghamton after senior JJ Starling exited with a hamstring injury. Nearly 23 years after his father, Carmelo Anthony, led the Orange to a national title, Kiyan took the court wearing the same colors.
Courtside, La La Anthony captured every moment in her son’s No. 7 jersey, sharing clips and photos with her 15 million Instagram followers. As Carmelo fulfilled his broadcasting duties for NBC, La La’s posts filled the gap, from Kiyan’s first bucket to his postgame interview.
What Did La La Anthony Say About Kiyan Anthony’s Syracuse Debut?
Anthony filled the void left by J.J. Starling’s early exit with poise beyond his years. The freshman guard logged 28 minutes, scoring 15 points on an efficient 6-for-10 shooting night while adding three rebounds, three assists, and zero turnovers, according to ESPN. It took him a few possessions to find his rhythm, but once settled, his confidence and court awareness took over.
Every time Anthony touched the ball, the crowd at the JMA Wireless Dome surged with energy. His scoring runs and sharp decision-making reminded fans why his arrival had been so highly anticipated. Wearing the same orange-and-white digs his father once made iconic, Anthony delivered a performance that hinted at the start of a new Syracuse chapter, one rooted in legacy but defined by his own game.
Courtside, La La Anthony balanced the nerves and excitement every parent feels watching their child chase a dream. Her cheers, reactions, and proud Instagram updates told the story of a mother watching her son come into his own.
“An incredible game for @kiyananthony!!!! So proud,” Anthony posted on her Instagram story about her son’s performance. In another post, she wrote, “Time really does fly but I’m just so proud of him and his hard work.”
Anthony Shines in Syracuse Debut as Carmelo’s Legacy Echoes Through the Dome
Carmelo wasn’t in the arena to see it live, fulfilling his new role as an analyst for NBC Sports’ NBA coverage. Still, his presence could be felt throughout the night. The smooth jumper, the midrange comfort, and the composure under pressure all carried the unmistakable touch of the older Anthony’s influence.
Kiyan Anthony was a 3-level BUCKET in his debut for Syracuse 👀
15 PTS | 3 REB | 3 AST | 60% FG pic.twitter.com/mfP2kuWvg0
— B/R Hoops (@brhoops) November 4, 2025
“He definitely watched it,” Kiyan told Syracuse.com of his dad’s absence after the 85-47 win. “He was definitely watching through the screen.’’
Reporters also asked the younger Anthony about playing so early due to Starling’s injury.
“I was like, damn man,” Anthony said. “Like, JJ, you know, this is his senior campaign. It’s unfortunate he couldn’t be out there, but, you know, the game has to go on and guys got to step up.”
Anthony knew what he needed to do to help the Orange in Starling’s absence.
“I just kept trying to apply the pressure and, you know, the buckets came,” said Anthony.