Carmelo Anthony to address graduates at 2025 commencement

Carmelo Anthony trades his signature jump shot for a microphone as he returns to the JMA Wireless Dome to deliver Syracuse University’s 2025 commencement address. 

The university announced that the Syracuse basketball legend will serve as keynote speaker for the Class of 2025 graduation, which will be held on Sunday, May 11, at 9:30 a.m. at the Dome.

In an SU press release, Chancellor Kent Syverud praised Anthony’s lasting influence on the university as he prepares to address graduates.

“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,” Syverud said. 

Anthony is one of Syracuse’s most celebrated student-athletes, leading the Orange to their first NCAA basketball championship in 2003. A freshman at the time, Anthony was named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player after scoring 21 points to help the then No. 3 seed Orange defeat No. 2 seed Kansas in the title game. 

After cementing his Syracuse legacy, Anthony went on to have a noteworthy career in the NBA, where he was a 10-time NBA All-Star, six-time All-NBA Team member, and four-time Olympic medalist, winning three gold medals and one bronze. He is also a finalist for induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2025.

“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,” Anthony said in SU’s press release. “Go Orange!”

The announcement added significance for the university, as Anthony’s son, Kiyan Anthony, is set to follow the family tradition and play for the SU men’s basketball team starting in the 2025-26 season. 

Anthony will join a long list of celebrated commencement speakers who have addressed Syracuse graduates inside the Dome. Some prominent names include 2020 speaker and Syracuse graduate Kathy Hochul, current Governor of the State of New York, and 2022 speaker David Muir, a decorated journalist and anchor for ABC World News Tonight.