NBA legend Carmelo Anthony explained why some teams use strip clubs as bonding spaces, saying they offer great food, a relaxed atmosphere, and everything you need in one place.
NBA legend Carmelo Anthony recently opened up on his 7PM in Brooklyn podcast about a surprising but often misunderstood aspect of NBA team culture: bonding at strip clubs.
Carmelo Anthony
Carmelo Anthony
Position: SF
Age: 41
Height: 203 cm
Weight: 104 kg
Birth place: Maryland, United States of America
According to Anthony, during his playing career, these outings weren’t always what people assumed—they were often used as a space for team connection, without the presence of women.
"At times, it was actually very respectful," Carmelo said on the podcast. "There were times when we’d say, 'Yo, we don’t want any girls around us. None.' Like, we're coming in here to chill, to bond. We’ve got to get our minds right."
He explained that after tough stretches—like losing two or three games in a row—the team would come together for a night out to regroup mentally.
"We’d go out to eat, have a good team outing—no girls, leave it alone," he said.
While strip clubs carry a certain reputation, Anthony pushed back against the stereotypes.
"Everybody thinks you’re going there just to get lap dances or for that. No—you’re not going there for that nonsense. You’re really going to clear your mind," Anthony explained.
"You're going there to just relax and reset. You might have a drink, maybe some food. Honestly, most strip clubs have the best food—especially the good ones. You prefer going there because you get everything in one: music, food, good vibes."
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