Sports
Syracuse Freshman Kiyan Anthony Signs NIL Deal with Jordan Brand
Syracuse, New York — Syracuse men’s basketball freshman Kiyan Anthony has signed a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal with Jordan Brand. Kiyan, the son of Syracuse legend Carmelo Anthony, is among four athletes in the brand’s new ‘Class of 2025’ alongside Duke‘s Cameron and Cayden Boozer and UConn’s Sarah Strong.
“To be part of the Jordan Brand family means carrying on a legacy,” Kiyan said in a Nike press release. “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.”
Carmelo Anthony became Jordan Brand’s first signature athlete over 20 years ago with the release of the Jordan Melo 1.5 in 2004. Kiyan scored 26 points in the 2025 Jordan Brand Classic, showcasing his scoring ability which has helped him average 13.8 points per game for the Orange this season.
During Kiyan’s freshman campaign, he stepped up during the absence of guard J.J. Starling, scoring 18 and 19 points in his first two starts. In a recent game watched by Carmelo and his mother, La La, Kiyan had 10 points and two steals in 24 minutes from the bench.
“Let me tell you about Kiyan, he’s a lot like his daddy,” said Houston coach Kelvin Sampson. “That boy can score that ball.”
Kiyan and the Boozer twins are the first men’s college basketball players to secure NIL deals with Jordan Brand. The brand’s focus on Kiyan not only highlights his talent but also the strong family legacy.
Jordan Brand’s new partnerships signify a commitment to nurturing young talent and ensuring they have a cultural impact beyond the court. Kiyan has already displayed his promise early in the season, fueling excitement among fans and talent scouts alike.
“We’re just getting started,” Kiyan stated, emphasizing his vision for community involvement as he carries forward the Anthony legacy.
