The freshman made his first career start in a win against Delaware State on Saturday, scoring 19 points on 8-of-11 shooting.
SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- If you watched the Syracuse men's basketball team topple Delaware State on Saturday afternoon at the JMA Wireless Dome, there were likely a few things that really stood out.
First, the Orange defense was tenacious, as they registered 11 blocks in limiting the Hornets to just 43 points (83-43 final). Second, the athleticism of William Kyle III was on full display, as he had six of those blocks while also pulling down 13 rebounds.
And finally, the play of talented freshman Kiyan Anthony jumped off the scoresheet, as he had 19 points on 8-of-11 shooting. The son of Carmelo Anthony made his first career collegiate start in place of the injured J.J. Starling and did not disappoint, also grabbing three rebounds and handing out four assists.
But maybe even more impressive than his total numbers was just the ease at which Anthony played. He seemed so comfortable on the court that, at times, he looked like he was gliding through the defense. He wasn't nonchalant, and it wasn't that he lacked intensity, he just seems to have a smoothness about his game that can't be taught. Some players are frenetic on the court, some players have a 'loud' game. Anthony is neither frenetic nor loud, he just seems to know exactly what he wants to do at all times.
I mean, I think it's just natural. I don't go out there saying, 'you know, I'm trying to look cool, I'm trying to be smooth.' I just think that's my game, learning to play within the offense, not trying to stand out of the offense and go get the ball and shoot the ball every time. I'm in the nine to 11 field goal attempts per game, and I'm trying to just be efficient. You know, I shot 8-for-11 today, 6-for-10 last game, and the efficiency, the shots, going game speed in workouts, it's all paying off. So I'm just looking forward to playing with these guys for the rest of the season. We've got a great bond. We hang out off the court, and those are my brothers.
After a 14-19 season a year ago, Syracuse is looking to make dramatic improvements in 2025-26 and with Anthony in the fold (among others), they certainly have a chance to do that.
The Orange will be back in action on Saturday afternoon against Drexel. The game will be played at 3:30 p.m. ET in Philadelphia, Pa.
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