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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 04: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers speaks to Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors during a timeout in the first half at Staples Center on April 04, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Yong Teck Lim/Getty Images)
via Getty
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 04: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers speaks to Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors during a timeout in the first half at Staples Center on April 04, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Yong Teck Lim/Getty Images)
The 2003 NBA draft featured some of the biggest stars this game has ever seen. While an 18-year-old LeBron James took most of the headlines back then, there was a certain NBA legend who was drafted as the #3 overall pick. It was none other than NBA veteran Carmelo Anthony.
Having last showcased his skills on the court during the 2021-22 NBA season as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers, the Melo Man has now taken to social media to officially declare his retirement from professional basketball.
After failing to find a team, the 19-year veteran has finally decided to call it a day. As the piece of news does the rounds on the internet, NBA icons like LeBron James and Kevin Durant have shared heartwarming wishes for Melo on social media platforms.
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LeBron James and Kevin Durant give their flowers to Carmelo Anthony
One of the biggest icons of the previous generation of NBA has decided to hang his shoes. Carmelo Anthony leaves behind an impressive legacy in the league.
USA Today via Reuters
Nov 15, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Carmelo Anthony (7) is defended by Chicago Bulls forward DeMar DeRozan (11) in the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
He was drafted by the Denver Nuggets as the third overall pick during the 2003 draft. A certified bucket since his early days in the league, Melo dominated the opposition with ease.
His best stint came with the New York Knicks where he played from 2011 to 2017 and won the 2013 Scoring Award. During that time, he averaged 24.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.2 assists. Thanks to his natural scoring prowess, Melo is ninth on the All-Time leading scorers chart with 28,289 career points.
As one of the greatest NBA players retires, his close friend LeBron James took to Instagram to post an emotional message for his former Lakers teammate.
“You are such a legend and beyond my brother!! and congratulations on a helluva ride”, wrote LeBron on his Instagram story. Not only James, but Kevin Durant also took to Instagram to post a series of nostalgic and emotional photos with Anthony.
via Getty
LOS ANGELES – FEBRUARY 13: Carmelo Anthony #15 of the Denver Nuggets and LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers pose during All-Star Portraits on February 13, 2004, in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by: Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)
Durant and the 10x NBA All-Star were a vital part of the 2012 Olympics Team. Along with all of his NBA accolades, Carmelo Anthony also boasts of three Olympic Gold Medals in 2008, 2012, and 2016.
NBA fans react to Melo’s retirement
Carmelo Anthony announced his emotional retirement on Instagram. Needless to say, the post has already gained a lot of traction on the platform. Here’s what the NBA world had to say.
Just dropped a couple thug tears G! This real! Hell of a career my brotha! wrote Draymond Green.
End of an era !! Congrats my guy ❤️
Bru it’s to early to be crying in public Melo. Thank you tho.
Some fans also commented on the quality of the video Melo posted. It seems some fans thought of it to be a commercial!
I thought this was just a commercial at first… I feel happy and sad at the same time one of the greatest LOVE!!!
First ballot HOF
We all grew up doing your 3 point celebration
WATCH THIS STORY: LeBron James Carmelo Anthony and Scottie Pippen in Attendance as Sons Light Up the Stage
What is your favorite memory of Carmelo Anthony? Let us know in the comments below.
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