UNCASVILLE, CONN. — When Carmelo Anthony gets inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame this weekend, in a small twist, he’ll get to be in the spotlight twice. The first time will, naturally, be for his personal accolades and longtime career that featured plenty of highs and droves of loyal fans.
The fun wrinkle is the inclusion of the 2008 USA Basketball men’s team, named “The Redeem Team,” for bringing the gold medal back to the states. Anthony was a crucial member of that team as the Americans got back on top of the international basketball world. So when that team is honored, Anthony gets to go into the Hall twice.
Anthony, speaking Friday at Mohegan Sun, reflected on his basketball career that featured media members from every step of his life. In all, Anthony was asked about Syracuse, USA Basketball, his NBA days with the Knicks, Nuggets, Thunder and more, along with his Puerto Rican heritage.
“That sounds good to say you’re going into the Hall of Fame twice,” Anthony said. “That’s a hell of a thing. I can hold on my hat on that. As far as the difference goes, I think it’s two different feelings. That ‘08 team, understanding the time period that we had to come together and be ready to go out there and face the world.”
Anthony was a fan favorite for his scoring prowess during his 19 seasons in the NBA. He was named an All-Star 10 times while earning All-NBA honors six times. Of course, his career needs to include his one season at Syracuse, where he led the Orange to the 2003 national title as a freshman. He also played for the Nuggets, Thunder, Rockets, Trail Blazers and Lakers in the league, though he was best-known for his time with the Knicks. Anthony also led the league in scoring during the 2012-13 season.
So when Anthony goes into the Hall, there will be plenty of New York roots — both the city and state. Those with Knicks and Syracuse connections asked him about his legacy and how that was an important part of his journey.
“For me, basketball was just a small part of it,” Anthony said. “Winning was another part of it. But representing New York City as a whole on the global stage and being able to walk around and represent that, and represent New York and the Knicks on the jersey. We talk about the Mecca of basketball.”
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