Three years have passed since Carmelo Anthony retired from the NBA, closing an illustrious chapter in the gold and purple of the Los Angeles Lakers. One of the game’s most prolific scorers, he left his mark across six franchises, from his explosive start in Denver to his leadership in New York and key stints in Oklahoma City, Houston, and Portland, cementing his place among basketball’s modern greats.
Known for his fierce attitude, signature scoring style, and magnetic presence on and off the court, Carmelo Anthony became one of the most beloved figures in basketball. Now the sixth-time All-Star steps to the microphone to deliver information about his induction speech as he is enshrined in the Hall of Fame.
Carmelo Anthony’s Hall of Fame induction speech
Being inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame is a milestone and a lifelong dream for any player, a testament to the legacy they leave on the game. But during an interview on the 7 PM in Brooklyn podcast, Carmelo Anthony made a remark about his induction that caught many by surprise, something few expected to hear from him.
And it all ties back to his upcoming induction speech. “There’s a tear coming down, for sure. That’s the moment, fam, kids, people that you grew up with,” Carmelo Anthony said of the occasion, before revealing, “The speech is written,” confirming that his words for next month’s ceremony are already prepared.
The buzz began after Anthony was asked about his on-court demeanor and the perception that the 41-year-old had never shown vulnerability or softness. That’s when Carmelo explained that his upcoming speech would almost certainly move someone to tears, or at least make them feel something.
Carmelo Anthony’s career ranks among the finest of recent years, marked by standout performances and impressive numbers. He averaged 22.5 points and 6.2 rebounds per game, and while he never captured an NBA championship, his résumé is worthy of a champion, six All-NBA selections and a scoring title to his name.
Carmelo Anthony’s Hall of Fame speech reaches beyond his NBA career
Carmelo Anthony shone with multiple NBA teams, but his impact stretched far beyond the league, from his dominance in high school to his pivotal role with the U.S. national team. His résumé speaks for itself: three Olympic gold medals and an NCAA championship in 2003, clear proof of his talent beyond the NBA.
“You reflecting on your whole career, high school, college, USA Basketball-you know what I’m saying? So it’s more than just the 19 years (in the NBA). You gotta go back and reflect on playing in the little league,” added Anthony in the podcast, saying that he included everything inside his words.
Alongside Anthony, the Hall of Fame Class also features Dwight Howard, Chicago Bulls coach Billy Donovan, and WNBA greats Sue Bird, Maya Moore, and Sylvia Fowles among its most celebrated inductees.
Read the full article here