After 10 All-Star appearances, six All-Time NBA selections, and 19 seasons in the NBA, Carmelo Anthony has officially retired! In the presence of greatness, Anthony retires in the Top 10 of scorers in NBA history, alongside names like Kareem Abdul-Jabaar, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Shaquille O’Neal, Wilt Chamberlain, and Karl Malone. With his official announcement, Melo finishes his prolific career, as one of the NBA’s elite scorers, with 28, 289 points.
“I remember the days when I had nothing. Just a ball on a court with a dream of something more. But basketball was my outlet. My purpose was strong, my communities, the cities I represented with pride, and the fans that supposed me along the way. I am forever grateful for those people and places cause they made me Carmelo Anthony.
But now the time has come for me to say goodbye. With this bittersweet goodbye to the NBA, I’m excited about what the future holds for me.”
There’s no denying that Carmelo Anthony is a living legend when it comes to the game of basketball. He has undoubtedly secured his legacy. NBA Commissioner, Adam Silver, also released a statement following Anthony’s announcement:
“Carmelo Anthony is one of the NBA’s all-time great players and ambassadors. We congratulate him on a remarkable 19-year career and look forward to seeing him in the Hall of Fame.”
Despite falling short every season, and never reaching the NBA Finals, his legacy remains untainted because of what he brought to the game. He played his heart out every game, and was a champion in his own right.
“People ask what I believe my legacy is. 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.”
Thank you #STAYME7O pic.twitter.com/4au8cOd13s
— Carmelo Anthony (@carmeloanthony) May 22, 2023
10x NBA All-Star, 6x All-NBA selection, 9th most points all-time and 75th Anniversary Team member…
— NBA (@NBA) May 22, 2023
Thank you, Carmelo! 👏 pic.twitter.com/Z3uRXCB5Xh
Congratulations, @carmeloanthony on an amazing career! 👏#STAYME7O pic.twitter.com/Z3GYLOE0dc
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) May 22, 2023
