Carmelo Anthony Supports Son Kiyan After Syracuse Benching

The Orange legend had words of encouragement for his son after he was benched for the entire loss against Virginia.

Feb. 7, 2026 at 9:55pm

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Carmelo Anthony, the Hall-of-Famer and Syracuse legend, weighed in after his son Kiyan was benched for the entire 72-59 loss against No. 18 Virginia. Syracuse coach Adrian Autry said the decision to hold Kiyan out was solely his and not injury related. Anthony posted a brief message of support on social media, saying "A little adversity don't hurt."

Why it matters

Carmelo Anthony is a revered figure in the Syracuse basketball program, having led the team to the 2003 national championship as a freshman. His public comments on his son's benching carry significant weight and provide a glimpse into the family's perspective during a challenging stretch for the struggling Orange team.

The details

Kiyan Anthony, a freshman, has been averaging 8.9 points per game this season. Syracuse has lost six of its past seven games, and head coach Adrian Autry has faced growing frustration from the Orange fanbase as he tries to find consistency with the team.

  • On February 8, 2026, Kiyan Anthony was benched for the entire loss against Virginia.

The players

Carmelo Anthony

A Hall-of-Famer and Syracuse legend who led the team to the 2003 national championship. He has remained closely tied to the program, including serving as a booster who helped fund the Carmelo K. Anthony Basketball Center.

Kiyan Anthony

Carmelo Anthony's son, a freshman at Syracuse who has been averaging 8.9 points per game this season.

Adrian Autry

The head coach of the Syracuse Orange, who has faced growing frustration from the fanbase as the team has struggled, losing six of its past seven games.

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What they’re saying

“A little adversity don't hurt.”

— Carmelo Anthony

What’s next

The Syracuse coaching staff will likely continue to evaluate Kiyan Anthony's role and playing time as the team looks to turn around its season.

The takeaway

Carmelo Anthony's public support for his son Kiyan during a challenging stretch for the Syracuse basketball team highlights the close-knit relationship between the Anthony family and the program. The team's struggles have raised questions about the direction of the program, but Carmelo's words of encouragement suggest he remains committed to the Orange's long-term success.