Carmelo Anthony’s Rebounding Revelations
Carmelo Anthony, a legendary figure in the New York Knicks’ history, has always made his presence known on the court, especially when it comes to securing rebounds. As he prepares for his Hall of Fame induction, Anthony reflected on an intriguing aspect of his game: his loud proclamations when grabbing the boards.
During a recent appearance on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” Anthony shared some candid insights into his rebounding style, which often included declaring ownership over the ball with phrases like “I got, f*** out of here!” His trademark enthusiasm for rebounding is evident in the numbers — over his illustrious career, he amassed 7,808 rebounds, with 2,865 of those recorded during his seven years with the Knicks.
The Origins of His Passion
The conversation took a humorous turn when Anthony was confronted with a compilation of his colorful exclamations. He explained that his approach to rebounding stemmed from the influence of old-school coaches. “Honestly, man, coaches used to get on you about rebounding a basketball,” he noted. Growing up with that mentality, he adopted a fierce attitude toward securing the ball, even jokingly suggesting that if he had been more vocal about his rebounds from the start, his statistics would have been even more impressive.
“People used to steal my rebounds, too,” he lamented, highlighting a competitive spirit that drove him to assert his dominance on the glass. His realization that declaring his rebounds was part of claiming them speaks volumes about his approach to the game, blending both skill and showmanship.
A Knicks Icon’s Legacy
Anthony’s impact on the Knicks is undeniable. He averaged 24.7 points and 7.0 rebounds per game during his time in New York, placing him among the franchise’s all-time greats in both offensive and defensive categories. His return to Madison Square Garden marked a significant chapter in his career, as he embraced the electric atmosphere of playing in his hometown.
In the same interview, Anthony also reflected on the origins of his signature celebration, the “fingers to the head” gesture after making three-pointers. He revealed that it was inspired by his former teammate Iman Shumpert and the legendary Rasheed Wallace. While Wallace performed the celebration with great intensity, Anthony chose a more subdued version, which he developed into a personal trademark.
A Lasting Impression
As Carmelo Anthony transitions into this next phase of his career, his legacy as a Knicks icon is firmly cemented. His unique flair for rebounding, combined with his high-scoring ability and charismatic personality, has left an indelible mark on the franchise and its fans. The recent conversation with Colbert only serves to remind us of the passion and humor that define Anthony both on and off the court.
For those looking to keep up with the latest developments surrounding the Knicks, including player insights and exclusive interviews, there’s much to explore in the ever-evolving landscape of New York basketball.
