Kiyan Anthony just scored a major career moment and he’s doing it with the brand that’s been part of his family for decades.
The Syracuse men’s basketball freshman has officially signed an NIL deal with Jordan Brand as part of its new “Class of 2025.”
Kiyan, son of Orange legend Carmelo Anthony, joins Duke standouts Cameron and Cayden Boozer and UConn star Sarah Strong in the lineup.
Mom La La Anthony couldn’t hold back her excitement, sharing the news on Instagram with a message celebrating her son’s work ethic and growth. “Kiyan is officially locked in with the Jordan family,” she wrote, adding that he’s earned every bit of the moment.
Kiyan enters his first season at Syracuse as the top New York prospect in his class, coming off a standout senior year at Long Island Lutheran and an MVP run at the 2025 Jordan Brand Classic.
His ties to the company run deep. Carmelo was Jordan Brand’s first signature athlete more than 20 years ago, and Kiyan received his first pair of Jordans from Michael Jordan himself.
“To be part of the Jordan Brand family, to me, means carrying on a legacy,” Kiyan said in a statement. “I want my legacy to be more than just basketball. I want it to be on and off the court, giving back to the community, doing everything I can to uphold my last name and carry the torch.”
So far, the freshman is off to an impressive start with the Orange. He’s averaging 13.8 points on 52% shooting and delivered 18 and 19 points in the two games he started while guard J.J. Starling was sidelined. In Syracuse’s overtime battle against No. 3 Houston, Kiyan added 10 points and two steals with Carmelo and La La watching courtside.
Even Houston coach Kelvin Sampson took note, telling reporters, “Let me tell you about (Kiyan), he’s a lot like his daddy. That boy can score that ball, he’s good.”
