Barely started with the NBL and Carmelo Anthony is already facing accusations. However, nothing that he wasn’t actually a part of. All the more reason that the former New York Knicks star had his doubts about the whole thing. But what has come out so far in his new venture — NBL Team Ownership — along with Kenny Smith, has a positive side as well. Let’s listen to what the positive is and how Melo handled the accusations against him.

Anthony joined NBL’s Felix Von Hofe in a conversation at the season-opener of the NBL25 season. The 10x All-Star stated the energy of the city and the reception he got left him in awe. To this, Hofe jokingly asked if Melo thought the reception may not come as good given what they do to Australia every 4 years.

“What you do to our national team is considered a crime in most countries,” Hofe, in good humor, accused Melo, referencing the Olympic matchups between the two teams. In the 2024 Olympics itself, Team USA defeated Australia by 98-92. And even during what is considered an embarrassing run for Team USA in the Olympics — 2004 — the team defeated Australia by 89-79. But Melo had almost nothing to contribute with his 2 minutes of playing time back then.

However, 4 years later, the 10x All-Star scored 15 points against Australia, furthering his Redeem Team’s claim for gold this time. And this continued with the 2012 and 2016 Olympics as well. In fact, the 2016 Olympics witnessed the single-handed domination of Melo against Australia with a game-high 31 points.

So the 10x All-Star is not wrong when he said in the interview with Hofe that the Australian national team brought out the best in him. But this does not mean Carmelo Anthony always stood with full surety on his decision regarding the NBL. “I was a little skeptical about coming over here at first. But I’m here, man, and the reception been phenomenal,” he added. From what it seems, the warm reception should boost the motive behind Melo entering this ownership scenario.

What was Carmelo Anthony’s intent behind joining NBL’s team ownership?

In a candid interview with Andscape, he revealed his true motivation — “Ownership for one. But that’s always, ownership is always, the ticket right.” However, for Melo, it wasn’t just about owning any team—it was about figuring out how to become an influential figure in the sport he dedicated his life to. You can almost feel his passion as he spoke about stepping into a bigger role in basketball.

But it’s not just about holding a title for the former NBA star. Anthony seemed determined to use his position to make an impact, especially in globalizing the sport. He explained how rare it is to see people like him in the ownership seats, with many only holding minor stakes that limit their influence. That’s not the path Melo wants.

He was eager to apply his knowledge, insight, and experience to expand the NBL. In a way that feels authentic. Working alongside NBL president Larry Kestelman, Melo will also be taking part in the league’s Next Stars program as a global ambassador.

Through the initiative, he’ll guide young talents. Helping them navigate their journey toward promising careers, many of which will lead to the NBA. It’s clear that Anthony’s new role isn’t just about business—it’s about leaving a legacy.

Stay tuned for more updates. Join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host, BG12, sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.