Syracuse Sun

Carmelo Anthony, a notable former student-athlete at Syracuse University, will deliver the university's 2025 Commencement speech. The event is scheduled for Sunday, May 11, at 9:30 a.m. and will take place at the JMA Wireless Dome. The occasion is significant as Anthony's son, Kiyan Anthony, is set to join the Orange men's basketball program, following in his father's athletic path.

Anthony, a finalist for the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2025, played one season with the Orange men's basketball team. He contributed to Syracuse's first NCAA Championship win against the Kansas Jayhawks and was named the NCAA Tournament’s Final Four Most Outstanding Player. His NBA career spanned 19 seasons, earning honors such as 10-time NBA All-Star and six-time All-NBA Team member. Additionally, he won three Olympic gold medals and one bronze with the U.S. basketball team.

Chancellor Kent Syverud remarked, “Carmelo Anthony played a pivotal role in one of the most storied moments in Syracuse University history. His exceptional talent, relentless work ethic, and athletic excellence are matched by his unwavering commitment to giving back, especially in creating opportunities for young people and aspiring student-athletes. We are honored to welcome Carmelo back to campus to inspire and share his journey with our graduates, their families, and the entire University community at this year’s Commencement ceremony.”

Expressing his enthusiasm about the upcoming event, Anthony stated, “I’m excited to be returning to the Dome to celebrate the amazing achievements of these graduates. This is a full-circle moment and serves as a powerful reminder of how education, resilience, and a supportive community can empower you to achieve your dreams. Go Orange!”

At Syracuse, Anthony was a consensus All-American and led the team with an average of 22.2 points and 10 rebounds per game. He accumulated numerous other accolades such as being honored as National Freshman of the Year and Big East Conference Freshman of the Year. Anthony declared for the NBA Draft in 2003 and was the third overall pick by the Denver Nuggets, with whom he consistently led the team to playoffs before being traded to the New York Knicks.

Anthony's career saw him play for various teams, including the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Portland Trail Blazers, and Los Angeles Lakers. Beyond his NBA career, he played a significant role internationally as a four-time Olympian.

Off the court, Anthony remains active in philanthropy, making a substantial contribution to build the Carmelo K. Anthony Basketball Center at Syracuse. He was awarded the Chancellor’s Medal for Philanthropy in 2017.

Since retiring from the NBA in 2023, Anthony has engaged in several entrepreneurial ventures. His projects include VII(N) The Seventh Estate, a global estate brand; STAYME7O, a lifestyle brand; and Creative 7, a content company. He also executive produces and co-hosts the series “7pm in Brooklyn.”