Carmelo Anthony has announced his retirement from NBA. The acclaimed player, who has been a part of the league for 19 seasons, announced that he would be hanging his boots. The 38-year-old shared the news on social media on Monday.
Anthony is one of the highest scores in NBA history. After making his debut in 2003 with the Denver Nuggets, he made it to the NBA All-Star ten times and was named to the All-NBA Team six times. Read on to know more about the legendary player’s career and retirement.
Carmelo Anthony Announces Retirement from NBA
Anthony posted a special message for his fans on Twitter on May 22nd reminiscing on his career and announcing his retirement from the league. “I remember the days when I had nothing, just a ball on the court and dream of something more,” the basketball player said in the video.
“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,” he added.
Thank you #STAYME7O pic.twitter.com/4au8cOd13s
— Carmelo Anthony (@carmeloanthony) May 22, 2023
“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 is a bittersweet goodbye to the NBA. I am excited about what the future holds for me,” Anthony concluded.
While the small forward has decided to say goodbye to NBA, he will continue his international career for a few more months at least. He is one of the ambassadors at the Basketball World Cup, which is set to take place in Asia in the summer this year.
Anthony Says His Son Will Continue His Legacy
Concluding his retirement message, Anthony said that his son Kiyan, who is a high-rated shooting guard in school Basketball, will continue his legacy. “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,” he stated. Following the announcement, several Basketball legends paid tribute to Anthony for his illustrious career. “You’re such a legend and beyond my brother. Congratulations on a helluva ride” wrote LeBron James.
Anthony is a 10-Time NBA All-Star Member
After beginning his career in college, Anthony was selected by the Denver Nuggets in the 2003 NBA Draft. He went on to play for the team till 2011 before moving to the New York Knicks. He then had brief stints with Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Portland Trail Blazers, and Los Angeles Lakers.
After a 19-season-long career, the player ranked ninth in the all-time highest scorers in the league. He also played in four Olympics, appearing in 31 games, the most by any US player. He helped the national team win gold medals at the Beijing Olympics in 2008, in London in 2012, and in Rio de Janeiro in 2016.
Our best wishes to Carmelo Anthony as he begins a new chapter in his life. Stay tuned for more news and updates.