Earlier this week, myself and Tom Goslowski discussed what we think Carmelo Anthony's role with Syracuse basketball should be moving forward. 

Within that conversation, I said that I think one of the first things that Gerry McNamara needs to do as head coach is to show Carmelo and his son, Kiyan, a little love.

I don't pretend to know exactly how both parties are feeling after Kiyan's freshman year under Adrian Autry, but after averaging 8.0 ppg and seeing his minutes decrease in conference play, I think it's fair to assume that the year wasn't perfect. I think simply showing them a little love, and re-iterating that the program values Kiyan and wants him to stay are good things. Kiyan Anthony has never given any vibes off like he wants to transfer, but in modern basketball, it's always a possibility, so I think going to him and sharing those sentiments are important.

And while I still think it's a good thing to do, it turns out that it might not actually be a necessity. Speaking on a podcast appearance that came out on Wednesday night, Carmelo Anthony spoke about the hiring of McNamara and he made it clear that Kiyan will be in the program again next season.

Anthony called McNamara one of the hardest workers he's ever been around and complimented his work ethic and diligence. He also said that he trusts McNamara to unlock something in Kiyan and believes that McNamara will be actively in the gym with him this summer to do that.

Speaking as a whole, Carmelo complimented the university leadership for setting a high standard in its hires.

Now 41 years old, Anthony spent just one season himself at Syracuse, winning the title in 2002-2003 by beating the Kansas Jayhawks in the NCAA title game. He started all 35 games that season, scoring 22.2 points per game and pulling down 10 rebounds. Important to note: He was teammates with McNamara on that team.

One of the best pure scorers of his generation, Anthony also had an accomplished NBA career that spanned 19 seasons with the Denver Nuggets, New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers, Portland Trail Blazers, Houston Rockets and Oklahoma City Thunder. A 10-time All-Star, he was also a six-time All-NBA selection. He won three Olympic gold medals and a bronze medal, making him one of the most decorated Olympians in USA men's basketball history.

He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2025.

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