Carmelo Anthony Is Retiring From the NBA After 19 Seasons – Carmelo Anthony, a former third overall pick in the NBA draft and a 10-time NBA All-Star, declared on Monday that he is ending his basketball career after playing for 19 seasons. At 38 years old, Anthony did not participate in the league this year and shared his retirement decision through a video posted on social media.
“I remember the days when I had nothing, just a ball on the court and a dream of something more,” Anthony said. “But basketball was my outlet, my purpose was strong, my communities, the cities I represented with pride, and the fans that supported me along the way. I am forever grateful for those people and places, because they made me Carmelo Anthony.”
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“But now the time has come for me to say goodbye to the court where I made my name, to the game that gave me purpose and pride. But this bittersweet goodbye to the NBA, I am excited about what the future holds for me. When people ask what I believe my legacy is, it’s not my feats on the court that come to mind, nor the awards or praise, because my story has always been more than basketball.”
Subsequently, Anthony directed his words to his 15-year-old son, Kiyan, who is emerging as a promising basketball talent and has received an offer from Syracuse University. There is a possibility that Kiyan might choose to pursue a similar path as his father. “My legacy, my son, it’s in you. I will forever continue through you, because the time has come for you to carry this torch,” he said.
“So Kiyan, chase your dreams, let nothing hold you back, let nothing intervene. My legacy, now and forever, lives on through you. I will always be proud of all that you do.” In 2003, Anthony embarked on his NBA journey as part of one of the most exceptional draft classes in history. He swiftly established himself as an elite scorer and went on to achieve numerous accolades.
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Throughout his career, he earned 10 All-Star selections, secured six All-NBA team honors, claimed a scoring title, and received the prestigious recognition of being named to the league’s 75th anniversary team in 2022. Primarily, Anthony showcased his skills while representing the Denver Nuggets and the New York Knicks. However, he also made brief appearances with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Portland Trail Blazers, and Los Angeles Lakers.
