Strong Momentum for Carmelo Anthony’s Number Retirement
Carmelo Anthony’s illustrious career with the New York Knicks may soon be commemorated in a special way as discussions intensify around retiring his iconic number 7 at Madison Square Garden. The buzz surrounding this potential honor reflects not only Anthony’s significant contributions to the franchise but also the strong backing he has received from within the organization.
Internal Support for Retirement
Recent insights from Knicks insider Ian Begley reveal that there is “strong support” within the Knicks organization to see Anthony’s number retired. This sentiment has been echoed since the moment he hung up his sneakers, with discussions about honoring the former star continuing to gain traction. Begley noted, “When Anthony retired, I know there was strong support internally within MSG to retire Anthony’s number. In checking around about this over the past couple of weeks, I can say that there remains strong support internally for retiring the number.”
Despite the ongoing conversations, there remains uncertainty about the final decision, which ultimately lies in the hands of owner James Dolan. The Knicks have not retired a number since Patrick Ewing’s No. 33 was raised to the rafters in 2003, making Anthony’s potential honor all the more significant.
A Career Worthy of Immortalization
Carmelo Anthony’s tenure with the Knicks, spanning seven seasons, has sparked ongoing debates regarding his legacy, particularly in light of the team’s playoff performance during that period. While the Knicks managed only a single playoff victory during his time, Anthony’s individual achievements are undeniable. He is one of only seven players in franchise history to score over 10,000 points while donning a Knicks jersey.
The narrative surrounding Anthony has evolved, especially following his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame on his first try. This honor has reinforced his case for having his number retired, especially after his heartfelt acknowledgment of the organization during his Hall of Fame speech.
Endorsements from Basketball Legends
Anthony’s candidacy for this honor has garnered support from prominent Knicks legends like Bill Bradley and Walt “Clyde” Frazier. Both players have expressed their backing for retiring Anthony’s number, which adds weight to the argument for his immortalization. Bradley and Frazier, alongside Ewing, represent just a few of the celebrated figures whose numbers hang prominently from the rafters, including Dick Barnett, Dave DeBusschere, Earl “The Pearl” Monroe, and Willis Reed.
As the Knicks prepare for the upcoming season, the discussions surrounding Carmelo Anthony’s legacy will likely continue to resonate among fans and players alike. The prospect of seeing his number 7 join the ranks of the franchise’s legends at Madison Square Garden is a testament to the lasting impact he had on the team and the city.
