Carmelo Anthony Playfully Suggests LeBron James Consider Retirement
In a lighthearted moment that encapsulates the camaraderie between two NBA legends, Carmelo Anthony recently poked fun at his longtime friend and rival, LeBron James, suggesting it might be time for him to hang up his jersey.
A Shared Draft Class and Career Journey
Both Anthony and James entered the NBA in 2003, with James being the first overall pick by the Cleveland Cavaliers, while Anthony followed closely as the third pick, headed to the Denver Nuggets. For a significant stretch, their careers seemed intertwined, each leaving an indelible mark on the league. However, as Anthony prepares to step into the Basketball Hall of Fame this weekend, the paths of these two superstars have diverged.
Carmelo’s Hall of Fame Moment
Reflecting on his upcoming induction, Anthony expressed admiration for LeBron’s sustained excellence in the league. On a recent episode of *The Late Show with Stephen Colbert*, he marveled at James’ ongoing career, stating, “He’s still going. It’s unbelievable, man.” Yet, in a blend of humor and affection, Anthony quipped that maybe it’s time for his friend to transition to the next phase of basketball life.
“That’s my brother,” Anthony said. “We talk about being around, being together, being tied, being connected, being talked about since we were 17-18 years old. For me to be entering the Hall of Fame, and for him to, you know, hopefully get his [expletive] up out of there and come on over to this side, enough is enough. Give it a break!”
Reflecting on NBA Careers
Carmelo Anthony last played in the 2021-2022 season, joining LeBron on the Lakers for a memorable partnership. That season, he appeared in 69 games, averaging 13.3 points while shooting 44% from the field and 38% from three-point range. Over his extensive career, which spanned over 1,200 games, Anthony was a 10-time All-Star and a six-time All-NBA selection, famously leading the league in scoring in 2013.
In contrast, LeBron James continues to defy age. At 40, he played in 70 games last season, averaging an impressive 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists. His performance earned him a spot in the All-Star game and recognition as an All-NBA player, solidifying his position as one of the elite players in the league.
The Future of King James
While Anthony may jest about LeBron’s future, the four-time champion shows no signs of slowing down. With both players having achieved legendary status in the sport, the basketball community eagerly anticipates what lies ahead for James, who is expected to follow in Anthony’s footsteps and eventually join him in the Hall of Fame.
As the NBA landscape evolves, the bond between these two icons remains a testament to their shared history and mutual respect, even as they navigate their respective paths in the sport they love.
