Carmelo Anthony Announces Retirement from the NBA

Carmelo Anthony (credit: Andreas Branch)

By: Joshua Martin

Ten-time all star Carmelo Anthony has officially announced his retirement from the NBA via an emotional video recap of his career where the caption simply read “Thank you #STAYME7O” During the video Melo mentioned that his on the court legacy pales in comparison to the love he has for his son, the game of basketball and the fans who supported him throughout his career.

Thank you #STAYME7O pic.twitter.com/4au8cOd13s

— Carmelo Anthony (@carmeloanthony) May 22, 2023

People ask what I believe my legacy is,” Anthony said. “It’s not my feats on the court that come to mind, all the awards or praise. Because my story has always been more than basketball. My legacy, my son … I will forever continue through you. The time has come for you to carry this torch.” - Carmelo via video address

The 38-year-old last played during the 2021-22 season where he was impressive coming off the bench for the Los Angeles Lakers, averaging 13.3 points and 4.2 rebounds in 69 games.

Carmelo Anthony suits up for the Los Angeles Lakers. (Daniel Dunn / USA TODAY Sports)

During his prime, Carmelo was arguably one of the greatest scorers of his era. Earning him numerous all star selections, in addition to a scoring title in 2013 with the Knicks. 

Carmelo played seven seasons in New York, he also spent time in Denver where he was selected number 3 overall by the Nuggets in one of the more memorable draft classes of all time, that saw Lebron James go number 1, Hall of Famer Chris Bosh at 4 and future hall of famer Dwayne Wade at 5. 

The 75th Anniversary team member made stops in Houston, Portland and Oklahoma City as well, en route to a Top Ten finish in total points scored in league history. 

Though uber talented, playoff success eluded CarMelo the majority of his career. The best chance he had at a title was in 2009 where the Nuggets fell short to the eventual champions, Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference Finals. He only made it out of the first round one other time. 

His performances with the USA Olympic team has definitely bolstered the 6 '7'’ forwards resume. The three time olympic gold medalist is the all time leader in appearance with 31, first in rebounds and second only behind Kevin Durant in points scored internationally.  

Carmelo Anthony celebrates during the Olympics. (ESPN)

But where does he rank all time?

Being born in the late 1900’s, I had the privilege of watching Melo’s career unfold right before my eyes. From his days at Oak Hill Academy where he went toe to toe with longtime friend and rival LeBron James in a Nationally Televised high school game, to a National Championship victory after an impressive tournament run during his lone college season at Syracuse where he was named the Most Outstanding of the 2003 Final Four, all the way to his clutch performances at Madison Square Garden. Carmelo has always delivered!!

Carmelo Anthony celebrates after a three point shot at Madison Sqaure Garden. (Brad Penner / USA TODAY Sports)

However when discussing the greats, where will Carmelo Anthony end up? He was never known for his defense and I'm sure Nuggets fans haven’t forgotten how he forced his way out of Denver for greener pastures in New York. And let's gloss over the season he spent with Russ and PG13, as Carmelo was clearly out of his prime and the thoughts of a big three quickly materialized into a big two and a half. 

Hindsight being what it is, Melo probably should have waited on a contract extension that prevented him from potentially teaming up with Dwayne Wade and Lebron during the 2010 offseason.  

Nevertheless, a trip to the Hall of Fame is undeniable for the legend who averaged 22.5 points per game during 19 seasons. The 6 time all Nba selection sits 9th on the all time scoring list with 28,289 points. 

In my opinion, Melo is in the top ten at his position. Not too many players had his pension for putting the ball in the hoop. The true definition of a “go to scorer”. Thanks Melo for the memories. 

Carmelo Anthony celebrates as player for the Denver Nuggets. (Barry Gossage / Getty Images)

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