Former NBA player Carmelo Anthony, who popularized one of the game’s most recognizable gestures himself, joined NBA on NBC and Peacock to blind-rank the top five most iconic celebrations in league history. The first selection he was asked to evaluate was LeBron James’ “The Silencer,” made famous during LeBron’s time with the Miami Heat. “Oh, LeBron ‘The Silencer’? I think that might be two,” Anthony said.

Next up was Stephen Curry’s “Night Night” celebration, which the Golden State Warriors guard debuted during the 2022 playoffs. “I think Steph ‘Night Night’ might be two,” Anthony reconsidered. “LeBron ‘The Silencer’ might be three.”

When asked about his own legendary “3 to the Dome” celebration — a staple during his prime years with the Knicks — the 10-time All-Star didn’t hesitate. “‘3 to the Dome’ is so iconic it made the cover of NBA 2K, alright? So that has to be number one,” he said confidently.

What other celebrations could make the list?

For Carmelo, narrowing it down wasn’t easy. He was later asked to rank Damian Lillard’s “Dame Time,” the Portland Trail Blazers guard’s signature move that perfectly captures his clutch-time heroics.

“This is interesting,” Anthony said. “Because you’re about to give me another one — the fifth one. I think I know where you’re going with this fifth one, but ‘Dame Time,’ I’ll put fourth.”

The fifth and final pick went to Jalen Brunson’s “3 Face Mask,” which landed by default but still earned Carmelo’s respect. As a former Knick himself, Anthony showed love for the current New York star: “That’s my guy — he’s doing his thing in the Garden.”

A celebration that can’t be forgotten

After finishing his ranking, Anthony reaffirmed that his “3 to the Dome” would always hold the top spot. But when asked whether Reggie Miller’s “Choke” gesture deserved a place on the list, he couldn’t help but laugh.

“He only did it once,” Anthony joked. “If that was his thing, then maybe… but you know Knicks fans are still salty. We’re still welcoming Reggie over this side, though.”

Miller’s infamous “Choke” remains one of the most unforgettable celebrations in NBA history, mainly because of its timing and context. It even made a brief return when Tyrese Haliburton mimicked it during last season’s playoffs — though, as Carmelo implied, it just didn’t hit the same.

As the Rockets continue to generate buzz during the preseason, Anthony highlighted one player he believes deserves strong consideration for the MVP honors. “KD never had a big man he could rely on to anchor the offense, someone with a game reminiscent of Jokic. Alperen Sengun is that kind of player; I can just feed him the ball, or execute a pick and roll with him,” Anthony shared on the 7PM Brooklyn podcast.

Anthony further elaborated: “It’s a choice, either Sengun scores or draws a foul. I’m also a scoring threat, or I can make a play. It’s all about choosing your challenge.” With this endorsement, Anthony effectively positioned the Rockets’ rising star as a prominent contender for next season’s MVP accolades.

While the MVP race is sure to be competitive, with perennial candidates like Luka Doncic, Nikola Jokic, and Giannis Antetokounmpo in the mix, Anthony’s choice might seem unexpected to some yet highlights a potential frontrunner he believes could shine in what promises to be a demanding season.

Sengun’s potential to become next season’s MVP

Sengun stands out not only as a prominent player for the Turkish National Basketball Team but also as a cornerstone of the Houston Rockets franchise. Sengun has been pivotal in fostering a distinct culture in Houston, earning admiration from both the fan base and his teammates.

In the past season, Sengun nearly shattered all his individual regular-season records, showcasing both determination and talent. This has positioned him as a likely contender to significantly impact the Rockets’ upcoming season. With a career-high average of 10.3 rebounds per game and an increase in games played—76 last season compared to 62 the previous year—Sengun is emerging as an invaluable asset for the NBA.

Teaming up with Durant, Sengun has the potential to make an indelible mark for the Rockets, potentially leading a roster that includes Steven Adams and Amen Thompson next season.

Madison Square Garden is not just a venue; it is the ultimate cathedral of basketball. The New York Knicks‘ history is interwoven with this legendary hardwood, defined by championship grit and a dramatic, star-driven legacy.

The franchise’s soul was forged by players who were defined by a certain brand of NY toughness. Their greatness is measured in unforgettable playoff moves and the sheer audacity of commanding the biggest stage in the NBA.

The journey through the greatest stars is not just about stats or titles. It’s about the moments that defined them, the rivalries that sharpened them and the legends who shaped the identity of the team’s basketball.

Patrick Ewing

More than just a franchise player, Patrick Ewing was the unyielding anchor who defined the Knicks’ identity for a decade and a half. Arriving at the Garden as the first overall pick in the legendary 1985 Draft, he became the beacon of an era marked by defensive force and sheer tenacity.

While the Larry O’Brien Trophy famously eluded him, the Jamaican-American center led the team to two NBA Finals (1994 and 1999) and was a perennial All-Star, cementing his status as the greatest center in team history and holding franchise records in points, rebounds and blocks.

Bernard King

The career of Bernard King in New York was a brilliant offensive outburst, intense yet tragically brief, with his lasting impact measured by the astonishing scoring efficiency he brought to the floor.

He was an offensive artist, crowning himself the 1985 NBA Scoring Champion with an average of 32.9 points per game, a statistical peak that ranks among the highest offensive outputs ever seen at the Garden.

What makes his story truly legendary is his epic return to the NBA’s elite after suffering a devastating knee injury, a blow that would have ended most careers. His time with the Knicks is summarized as a showcase of individual skill and moving resilience, earning him the respect of the entire league.

Carmelo Anthony

Carmelo Anthony‘s arrival at Madison Square Garden in 2011 was a seismic event promising a return to glory for New York. “Melo” delivered on the individual front, establishing himself as an elite scorer with a virtually unlimited offensive arsenal, averaging 24.7 points per game during his Knickerbocker tenure.

His playing style, centered on the dominant mid-range game and deadly jab-step, was a delight for fans. He led the Knicks to their first division title in 19 years (2013) and provided the fanbase with moments of intense euphoria, solidifying his status as the offensive icon of the franchise in the 21st century.

Willis Reed

If there is one moment that encapsulates the Knicks’ mystique, it is the image of Willis Reed limping onto the court for Game 7 of the 1970 Finals. This center, who had already been named MVP of the season, the Finals, and the All-Star Game that year, was the emotional and inspirational leader who guided the Knicks to their only two NBA championships (1970 and 1973).

He wasn’t just a great rebounder and scorer; he was the team’s heart. His near-miraculous entrance to the Garden in 1970, despite scoring only two baskets, unleashed a deafening ovation and galvanized his team to victory, immortalizing his legacy as New York’s bravest captain.

Earl Monroe

Known as “The Pearl”, Earl Monroe was the pure showmanship and elegance personified on the court. Acquired in 1971, the player, with his signature shake-and-bake moves, spins, double-pumps, and off-balance shots, brought a touch of playground basketball flair to the bright lights of the Garden.

What initially seemed an unlikely pairing with the methodical Walt “Clyde” Frazier turned into one of the most celebrated backcourts in history, crucial to the 1973 championship. He was the creative spark, an artist who proved the “little man” could be the biggest spectacle in an era dominated by giant centers.

John Starks

John Starks‘ journey is an NBA fairy tale, rising from an undrafted player to an All-Star and the epitome of the indomitable passion of the 90s Knicks. He was a volatile scorer and fierce defender who channeled the energy of the crowd like no other.

His most iconic moment wasn’t a shot, but “The Dunk”: a savage baseline drive, finished left-handed over both Michael Jordan and Horace Grant in the 1993 Eastern Conference Finals, an act of physical defiance that remains one of the most replayed highlights in NBA history. Starks, the franchise’s all-time leader in three-pointers, was the impulsive heart of an era defined by playoff drama.

Charles Oakley

Charles Oakley didn’t just play basketball; he made the court an uncomfortable place for opponents. This power forward earned the nickname “Oak Tree” for his rugged physique and no-nonsense attitude, becoming the premier defender, rebounder, and enforcer for the 1990s Knicks.

His job wasn’t just to snag rebounds; his primary task was to protect Patrick Ewing and ensure no opponent took liberties in the Garden. His toughness and commitment to physical play made him an instant favorite of the New York faithful, who valued the dedication and trench warfare mentality he brought to every single game.

Walt Frazier

If the Knicks’ two championships have a distinct cultural face, it is Walt “Clyde” Frazier, the point guard who elevated basketball to an art form both on and off the court. He was the very definition of “cool” in New York, famed for his flamboyant suits, Rolls-Royce, and signature fedoras, earning the nickname “Clyde” after the infamous dapper outlaw.

On the court, he was the floor general of the championship teams (1970, 1973), using his lightning-quick hands and anticipation to anchor the defense, earning seven consecutive All-Defensive First Team selections.

His masterpiece remains Game 7 of the 1970 Finals, where he delivered one of the greatest individual performances in NBA history with 36 points, 19 assists, and 7 rebounds, even while Willis Reed provided the emotional lift.

Dave DeBusschere

Dave DeBusschere was the glue, the muscle, and the sheer toughness that turned the Knicks’ talented group into a championship powerhouse, providing the defensive tenacity that defined the early 1970s teams.

Known as “Big D,” he was a rugged forward who averaged a double-double for his career, yet his primary value was as a defensive stopper and dominant rebounder who could physically match up with any opponent.

His arrival via trade in 1968 immediately completed the championship puzzle, providing the necessary grit and two-way consistency to win both the 1970 and 1973 titles. A fascinating piece of trivia about him: he also pitched for the Chicago White Sox for four seasons, making him a rare two-sport professional star.

Allan Houston

Allan Houston personified the smooth, quiet scoring efficiency of the 1990s and early 2000s Knicks, possessing one of the most aesthetically pleasing jump shots in league history. Nicknamed “H-2-0” for the way his shots consistently dropped like water, he was a two-time All-Star and a foundational piece of the team that reached the 1999 NBA Finals.

His most legendary contribution, however, remains his game-winning runner in Game 5 of the 1999 Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against the Miami Heat, a shot that bounced off the rim and through the net with 0.8 seconds left, becoming one of the most clutch and memorable series-winners in franchise history.

Bill Bradley

Bill Bradley‘s legacy is arguably the most unique in NBA history, defined not just by his two NBA championships with the Knicks but by his unparalleled career trajectory as a Rhodes Scholar and a U.S. Senator.

On the court, he was an intelligent, fundamentally sound forward who prioritized teamwork and smart passing over flash, earning him the moniker of a “thinking man’s player”.

While his political career later defined his public life, his decade with the Knicks (1967–1977) was critical, providing the unselfish chemistry and steady reliability that allowed the more flamboyant stars like Frazier and Monroe to flourish and capture the 1970 and 1973 titles.

Julius Randle

Julius Randle represents the tempestuous and triumphant start of the Knicks’ modern-day resurgence, joining the franchise in 2019 and evolving into a three-time All-Star and All-NBA talent who centered the team’s offense for nearly five years.

He earned the Most Improved Player award in 2021 and became the face of the team that ended an eight-year playoff drought, a monumental achievement in New York sports.

His time was defined by a massive workload and an intense emotional connection with the passionate New York crowd, making him the definitive figure of the Knicks’ return to relevance in the 2020s, despite the immense microscope of the New York media that ultimately led to his difficult departure.

Jalen Brunson

Jalen Brunson is perhaps the most beloved and impactful free-agent signing in recent Knicks history, instantly transforming the franchise into a perennial playoff contender through pure grit, leadership, and undeniable skill.

He is not just a high-volume scorer; he is the cerebral engine of the offense, known for his relentless drive, clutch shot-making, and deep mastery of the pick-and-roll.

Since arriving in 2022, the compact point guard has quickly ascended to All-NBA status and led the Knicks to their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance in 25 years, proving that his stature—both physical and metaphorical—is far greater than the size of his contract.

Anthony Mason

The late Anthony Mason was the heart and soul of the 1990s “Sledgehammer Knicks,” the physical embodiment of the city’s blue-collar, no-nonsense mentality. Rising from an undrafted journeyman to an All-Star, “Mase” was a power forward with the skills of a guard, known for his versatility, defensive intensity, and the intricate designs often carved into his hair.

He earned the 1995 NBA Sixth Man of the Year award by providing relentless energy and toughness off the bench, becoming an ultimate irritant to opponents and a perfect complement to Patrick Ewing and Charles Oakley. His physical approach, once described by Hakeem Olajuwon as leaving him “gingerly” after a hard-fought Finals game, defines the intensity of that era.

Bill Cartwright

Before the arrival of Patrick Ewing, Bill Cartwright was the man anchoring the center position for the New York Knicks for eight seasons. Drafted third overall in 1979, the towering seven-footer was a steady, dependable scorer and rebounder, earning an All-Star nod in his rookie season.

He was known for his effective turnaround jumper and high field-goal percentage, forming the offensive centerpiece for the Knicks in the early 1980s. While his time in New York is often overshadowed by the fact that he was eventually traded to Chicago for Charles Oakley, his consistent, reliable presence at center laid the groundwork for the ensuing decade.

Stephon Marbury

Stephon Marbury‘s career with the Knicks is a story of immense talent, high expectations, and controversy, a fascinatingly complex chapter in the franchise’s history. A Coney Island native and the “Prodigal Son” returning to New York, he was a dynamic point guard known for his spectacular ball-handling and scoring ability.

However, his tenure was plagued by personal struggles and team turmoil, preventing the Knicks from reaching the competitive heights his talent promised. Despite the turbulence, his ultimate story is one of global redemption, as he later reinvented himself as a champion and icon in the Chinese Basketball Association, a rare second act in international sports.

Amar’e Stoudemire

Amar’e Stoudemire was the first star to choose the Knicks in the modern free-agency era, igniting a wave of genuine hope and becoming the initial spark of the team’s reawakening.

Known for his explosive athleticism and devastating pick-and-roll game, he had an immediate and MVP-level impact, carrying the offense before the arrival of Carmelo Anthony.

His initial run in the Mike D’Antoni system saw him drop 30 points in nine consecutive games, showcasing a blend of brute strength and a smooth mid-range jumper that few power forwards could match. Though injuries curtailed his peak, his signing in 2010 was a watershed moment that re-established the Knicks as a viable destination for superstars.

Harry Gallatin

Hailing from the NBA’s earliest days, Harry “The Horse” Gallatin was the league’s original ironman, a Hall of Fame power forward who defined durability and rebounding excellence for the Knicks from 1948 to 1957.

He was known for his relentless hustle and physical strength, playing through injuries to set a then-NBA record of 682 consecutive games played. He was a seven-time All-Star and led the league in rebounding in 1954, serving as the foundational big man who powered the Knicks to three consecutive Eastern Division Championships in the early 1950s.

David Lee

David Lee emerged as a true fan favorite during a challenging era for the Knicks, earning his popularity through pure hustle, rebounding tenacity, and a relentless offensive motor. Drafted in 2005, the power forward became known for his consistent double-double production, especially during the 2009–10 season where he averaged over 20 points and 11 rebounds.

He was a high-efficiency scorer who excelled near the basket, proving that a relentless work ethic could compensate for star power. He earned his lone All-Star selection while wearing a Knicks uniform, symbolizing the hard-working ethos that fans clung to during the franchise’s rebuild.

Dick McGuire

Hailing from the Bronx, Dick “Tricky Dick” McGuire was the quintessential playmaker of the New York Knicks in the 1950s, a pass-first point guard who orchestrated the team’s offense with uncanny court vision.

He earned his nickname for his clever dribbling and ability to slip pinpoint passes through the tightest defensive lanes, often looking like he had “eyes in the back of his head”. He played eight seasons for the Knicks, was a seven-time All-Star, and led the NBA in total assists in his inaugural 1949–50 season.

More profoundly, his longevity and service to the organization were remarkable; he remained a Knick as a player, coach, consultant, or scout for 53 of the franchise’s first 64 years, a staggering testament to his dedication.

Larry Johnson

Larry “Grandmama” Johnson was a key power forward for the late 90s Knicks, but his entire legacy in New York is dominated by a single, chaotic, and iconic moment of sheer will. The player, an already accomplished two-time All-Star, joined the Knicks in 1996 and fully embraced the team’s tough identity.

His legend was forged in the 1999 Eastern Conference Finals against the Indiana Pacers, when, down by three points with 11.9 seconds left, he launched an off-balance three-point attempt while leaning into defender Antonio Davis.

The shot went in, the foul was called, and Johnson completed the four-point play for a dramatic 92-91 victory. He later admitted the shot and the subsequent game-winning free throw were the “worst I ever shot in my life,” perfectly encapsulating the glorious, anarchic nature of that clutch moment.

J.R. Smith

No player better embodied the “unpredictable fireworks” nature of the early 2010s Knicks than J.R. Smith, a shooting guard whose ability to heat up instantly made him the most exciting, and often frustrating, player on the court.

Joining the Knicks in 2012, he hit his professional peak in New York, winning the 2013 NBA Sixth Man of the Year award by providing an electrifying scoring spark off the bench.

He was a volume three-point specialist who frequently chased franchise records for threes made and attempted, setting a team record with 10 three-pointers in a 2014 game. His tenure was a volatile but high-scoring thrill ride, showcasing a talent that was pure, unfiltered adrenaline.

Mark Jackson

A hometown hero from Brooklyn, Mark Jackson was the traditional, pass-first point guard who perfectly fit the Knicks’ grind-it-out style, serving as the floor leader for their powerful late 80s and early 90s teams.

Drafted by the Knicks in 1987, he immediately won the NBA Rookie of the Year award, a rarity for a player picked outside the top 15. His legacy is built on his exceptional passing ability; he currently ranks as one of the top three all-time assist leaders in NBA history.

He embodied the city’s basketball IQ, utilizing a methodical pace and pinpoint passing to organize the offense around Patrick Ewing and set the stage for the team’s resurgence.

Bob McAdoo

Bob McAdoo remains one of the most statistically dominant, yet often overlooked, players to wear the Knicks uniform, bringing MVP-level scoring talent to the Garden in the mid-1970s.

Already an NBA MVP and three-time scoring champion with the Buffalo Braves, he continued his offensive explosion in New York, averaging a remarkable 26.7 points and 12.0 rebounds over his 171 games with the club. He was a 6’9″ center/forward with a lethal outside jump shot and post moves that allowed him to dominate big men and guards alike.

While his tenure in New York was ultimately short-lived and plagued by injuries that slowed the team’s success, his sheer offensive production during that era is among the most efficient in franchise history.

Tyson Chandler

The arrival of Tyson Chandler in 2011 was a seminal moment that instantaneously changed the defensive DNA of the New York Knicks, transforming the team from one of the league’s worst defensive units into a Top 5 juggernaut in just one season.

The seven-foot center and former champion became the defensive anchor and vocal leader that the franchise had desperately sought, patrolling the paint with relentless energy.

His massive impact was officially recognized in 2012 when he was named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year, becoming the first Knicks player ever to win the prestigious award. His individual commitment and his ability to make his teammates accountable redefined the team’s culture and provided the foundation for their 2013 playoff success.

Anthony played for the Orange during the 2002-03 campaign, where he led them to the national championship under Jim Boeheim. In 35 games with the Orange, Anthony averaged 22.2 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, while shooting 45.3% from the field, 33.7% from deep, and 70.6% from the free-throw line.

His son enters college as the No. 36 player on ESPN’s 100 list, having an 87 scout grade and being considered the No. 1 player in the state. “Melo” has been nothing but supportive of the kid, and the love goes both ways.

Kiyan Anthony accompanied his father to the Hall of Fame ceremony on Saturday and helped him put on the HOF jacket. While they won’t be LeBron and Bronny James sharing the court, they are working together off of it.

Carmelo Anthony, Kiyan Anthony launch exclusive merch collection

Shortly after their appearance at the 2025 Hall of Fame ceremony, Kiyan and Carmelo Anthony showed up to announce their latest joint venture. The Orange freshman shared an Instagram post with SLAM to announce the Slam 258, Cover Tee Collection.

The collection will include a cover tee, a framed magazine with protective casing, and a collection to celebrate Carmelo’s journey and hype up what Kiyan might achieve now that he’s beginning his college career.

They share so much more than the love for the game, and if things go right for the Orange, Kiyan could emulate his father and win a national championship with the program.

Carmelo won a championship during his first and only season with the orange, averaging 22.2 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, while being a consensus All-American and an All-Big East, among other honors.

Kiyan Anthony carries high expectations coming into the season, but his father has shown him nothing but support through his journey. “Melo” inspired the kid from a young age, and Kiyan didn’t hesitate to remind his dad that he’s been a Hall of Famer in his eyes since forever.

Kiyan Anthony showers Carmelo Anthony with praise ahead of HOF ceremony

In a video for “The Players’ Tribune,” Kiyan gave fans more details about his relationship with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft.

“Yo, Pops…you’ve been a Hall of Famer to me my whole life. All that hard work…nobody seeing you work as hard as you do. I appreciate you paving the way for me,” he said.

Anthony shares that seeing his father work hard to become the best player he could be inspired him:

“Just not even this part itself, just to see the preparation and everything he went through, writing, taking months, almost a year to write that speech,” said Kiyan. “For him to come out here today, super confident, us suited and booted, we’re definitely looking forward to hearing his name called and his speech.”

The Anthony family legacy was written with golden letters by Carmelo, and now Kiyan will have the chance to continue the story.

On its X account, formerly known as Twitter, Fanatics posted a video asking Carmelo Anthony to reveal his NBA all-time starting five. He responded enthusiastically: “Point Guard, I got the chance to play with him. I wish I played earlier in my career with him, Derrick Rose. Shooting Guard, I mean I played with AI (Allen Iverson), 3’s T-Mac (Tracy McGrady), 4’s, I don’t want to say this, but I would say (Kevin) Garnett and the five, I mean Shaq is Shaq man.”

Carmelo’s picks surprised fans, omitting two key figures from the GOAT debate in his starting five. Despite naming league legends, Anthony notably left out Michael Jordan, whom he has often cited as pivotal in his career. Fans wonder about the logic behind excluding the Bulls’ icon while acknowledging its impact. “He taught me the psychological aspect of how to break down scoring… When I got with him, it was more individualized,” he said, via 7PM in Brooklyn podcast.

While omitting LeBron was quite surprising, Carmelo Anthony has consistently expressed his admiration for him. In a 2023 FIBA interview, Anthony highlighted him as one of his best USA teammates, alongside Kobe Bryant. He also ranked James among the GOATs, with legends like Michael Jordan and Julius “Dr. J” Erving, underscoring his deep respect for both the Lakers legend and the Bulls legend.

Carmelo Anthony’s starting five picks are still legendary in the NBA history

Carmelo Anthony’s choice of legends for his starting five generated buzz, especially with the absences of icons like LeBron and Jordan. A standout selection is Derrick Rose, whose career spans 15 years marked by a significant impact and an MVP award during his Chicago Bulls tenure, despite not yet being Hall of Fame-bound.

Allen Iverson carved out his legendary status with the Philadelphia 76ers, capturing an MVP and maintaining an extraordinary average of 26.7 points and 6.2 assists over 914 games. His contributions undeniably cement him as one of the era’s greatest. Tracy McGrady, one of the more surprising entries on Carmelo’s list, achieved stardom only with the Orlando Magic. Yet, despite the late ascent, McGrady’s influence on the league remains remarkable.

Kevin Garnett, unlike the other mentioned players, is indisputably one of the most influential figures in NBA history. His resume—featuring an MVP award, a DPOY award, a 2008 championship, and 15 All-Star selections—highlights his extraordinary impact. Likewise, Shaquille O’Neal closes Carmelo’s list, renowned as one of the most transformative big men ever. Many even commendably rank him among the top 10 players in the NBA history.

His parents have supported him every step of the way, but they have also had a good laugh at the expense of the freshman.

It’s common to see both Carmelo and La La Anthony hype up their kid on social media, but there’s a part of it that the player doesn’t really enjoy. Talking with PEOPLE about an episode of Instagram’s “Close Friends Only” podcast, Kiyan Anthony revealed how his parents “embarrass” him.

Kiyan Anthony opens up about his parents

“Oh, they still do [embarrass me.] They post a lot of videos that I don’t want them to post,” he said. “But it’s all good. It’s all jokes,” he continued. “They see me more than anybody, so they got all the funny videos of me, and sometimes they like to troll and post it.”

His highlights have made the rounds on social media, and both Carmelo and La La have given him his flowers. On the other end, they also enjoy teasing the freshman whenever they have the chance.

Kiyan Anthony starts a new chapter in his basketball journey in Syracuse

Kiyan Anthony is a five-star prospect from Long Island Lutheran High School. He averaged 10.3 points, 2.4 assists, and 2.3 rebounds in his final campaign, in which he led the Crusaders to a 21-5 record.

Anthony is following in his father’s footsteps, defending his alma mater 22 years later. He’s one of many second-generation players in college this season, alongside the Boozer twins and Alijah Arenas.

Carmelo Anthony, then a rising star with the Denver Nuggets, should have won Rookie of the Year over LeBron James, according to McGrady. Anthony, who now has a new gig lined up for the 2025–26 season, continues to host 7PM in Brooklyn, where McGrady recently appeared and revisited the hotly debated rookie race between James and Anthony.

Reflecting on that 2003 NBA season, McGrady pointed out the contrast in team success. While LeBron failed to take the Cleveland Cavaliers to the postseason, Anthony led the Nuggets to a playoff berth — a major accomplishment for any rookie. That context, McGrady suggested, should have tipped the scales.

“You knew Melo, Bron, and those dudes were gonna be tough,” McGrady said on 7PM in Brooklyn. “Honestly, I mean, no shade to anybody, but I thought [Carmelo] should have won Rookie of the Year because you took your team to the playoffs. That is a tremendous accomplishment for a rookie to come in, have that spotlight on him like that, and to get slighted on Rookie of the Year — I ain’t like that at all.”

McGrady recalled how Anthony’s physical style immediately set him apart in Denver. The former Magic and Rockets star believed from the start that Carmelo had the tools to be elite — not just in talent, but in mentality.

“I knew he was gonna be tough because right away, you seen the physicality on the offensive end,” McGrady added. “Typically, young guys come in and they try to ease their way. This m*** was like a bruiser. You had to withstand that for 40 minutes of hell. I admired that young core coming in and being who they were at that time.”

He continued, “You talk about Kobe, AI, myself, and Vince — and now we got some young energy coming in this m*** that’s confident, aggressive, and got game.”

Ultimately, LeBron James was named the 2003 NBA Rookie of the Year. He would go on to lead the Cavaliers to their first NBA Finals appearance in 2007, cementing his legacy early in what would become a legendary career.

Still, McGrady’s comments reflect a long-standing sentiment among fans and former players: that Carmelo’s rookie campaign was more than worthy of the award — especially considering the playoff impact he made with the Nuggets that season.

Carmelo Anthony was an outstanding player in the Big Apple for several consecutive seasons, and today, far from his professional playing days, he enjoys the sport from a different perspective. After the news of Wilson’s arrival broke, he didn’t hesitate to express his excitement about it.

In a recent conversation with Sports Illustrated’s Conor Orr, the former Seahawks and Broncos player revealed the conversation he had with the former Team USA Olympic medalist, who assured him that New York will be a great place for him in this new challenge.

“Me and Carmelo were talking about this,” Wilson said. “He’s like, ‘Man, this is the perfect place for you to reestablish and have everybody realize who Russell Wilson really is, by not just how you play on the field, but what you do, the community and different things that you’re able to impact.’ “And people, it doesn’t get any bigger than New York City.”

Excitement for a new challenge

After his most recent stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers — where his performance fell short both on the field and statistically — Wilson now has a new opportunity to showcase his talent, this time with the New York Giants.

In a conversation with the media, the veteran QB and Super Bowl champion with the Seahawks expressed his excitement about this new challenge. He emphasized that he’s in peak physical condition and eager to do things right alongside head coach Brian Daboll and his new teammates.

“Honestly, I feel like I’m 25 years old all over again,” Wilson said. “And I think part of that is just physically I feel great. Mentally, I feel amazing in terms of, It’s possible. You know what I mean? And I think ultimately, a big part of it is the people you’re around, the players, the coaching staff, the mentality of the guys. And then being in the city. The energy of it is for people that like to be fast-paced, which is me.”

The players didn’t have to deal with a 24/7 news cycle because social media wasn’t a big thing — or even a thing. But they had to comply with Stern’s long set of policies.

With that in mind, Syracuse-bound Kiyan Anthony asked his father, Carmelo, whether he thinks the players have more freedom now and how it may have affected his game.

Carmelo Anthony says players have more freedom now

“Do you ever look at the way people in my generation post and be like, ‘Damn, I wish I had that freedom,’ or do you think it would mess you up in a game?“ Kiyan responded.

“There were some things that couldn’t have been posted at that time. It was problems with how we dress; it was problems with how we walk; it was problems with how we talk,” Carmelo said. “So if you posted a video of doing something that y’all are allowed to post today, you would have been out of the league in that point in time. Early!”

Commissioner David Stern kept the players on a short leash, and even Anthony admitted that he used to reach out to him to let him know everything he was up to, including who he was hanging out with. The game has changed, and so has the world.

In a recent appearance on Close Friends Only, Anthony was asked to name his favorite lineup of basketball legends, and his answer caught many by surprise. He started by selecting an active player as his point guard: “I’ll go with Chris Paul because I played with Chris Paul for two Olympics.”

Indeed, Carmelo and CP teamed up for Team USA in the 2008 Beijing and 2012 London Olympics, where they won gold medals. They were also part of the squad that competed at the 2006 FIBA World Championship in Japan, finishing third after losing to Greece in the semifinals. Additionally, they briefly played together on the Houston Rockets.

Anthony quickly rounded out his lineup with four more selections. “MJ (Michael Jordan), LeBron (James), (Kevin) Durant, and myself,” said the 2013 scoring champion without hesitation. One notable aspect of his picks: Carmelo leaned heavily toward players from his own era—those he either played alongside in the NBA or with Team USA. All but one.

The lone exception was Michael Jordan, who retired in 2003 with the Washington Wizards, just before Anthony was selected third overall in the NBA Draft by the Nuggets. Including the Chicago Bulls legend in his starting five highlights the deep respect and admiration Carmelo holds for him.

Like Chris Paul, both LeBron and Durant were teammates of Carmelo’s on various Team USA squads. James played with him during the disappointing 2004 Athens Olympics—the only time in the past 33 years that Team USA failed to win gold—and also joined him for the Redeem Team in 2008 and again in London 2012. KD took part in the latter, as well as in Rio 2016, which was Melo’s final Olympic appearance.

Several high-profile stars from Anthony’s era were notably left off his list. Perhaps the most surprising omission was Kobe Bryant, a key member of that 2008 Redeem Team, who apparently lost his spot to Michael Jordan at two-guard.

Other players Carmelo shared the court with but didn’t include were Tim Duncan, Allen Iverson, Jason Kidd, Dwyane Wade, Russell Westbrook, James Harden, and Kyrie Irving.