Nike announced Monday that Syracuse men’s basketball freshman Kiyan Anthony has signed a zero deal with Jordan Brand. Kiyan – the son of Syracuse legend Carmelo – was one of four athletes signed by Jordan Brand for their “Class of 2025,” along with Duke’s Cameron and Kayden Boozer and UConn’s Sarah Strong.
“For me, being a part of the Jordan Brand family means carrying on the legacy,” Kiyan said via 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, keeping my last name and doing everything I can to carry the torch forward.”
Carmelo was Jordan Brand’s first signature athlete 20 years ago, releasing the Jordan Melo 1.5 in 2004. Carmelo met Michael Jordan during the 2002 Jordan Brand Classic, where he led all players with 27 points. Qian scored 26 runs at the 2025 Jordan Brand Classic, and won the MVP award.
Kylian has shown promise in his short time with the Orange. He is currently averaging 13.8 points per game on 52% shooting from the field. He scored 18 and 19 points in the two games he started while Syracuse guard JJ Starling was injured. The Orange lost to No. 3 Houston 78-74 in overtime on Monday. Kiyan had 10 points and two steals in 24 minutes off the bench with Carmelo and his mother, La La, watching courtside.
“Let me tell you about (Kian), he’s like his dad,” Houston coach Kelvin Sampson said, via Alejandro Compion on X. “That guy can score that ball, he’s that good.”
Kiyan, along with the Boozer twins, are the first male college basketball players to have a zero-summation deal with Jordan Brand.
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