Carmelo Anthony is hanging up his jersey, announcing his retirement from basketball after 19 seasons in the NBA. Anthony posted a video on social media officially saying goodbye. “Thank you #STAYME7O,” he captioned the post.
In his announcement, Anthony reflected on his accomplishments in the NBA with fondness, sharing game footage and clips from his college and professional careers.
“Now the time has come for me to say goodbye, to the court where I made my name, to the game that gave me purpose and pride.”
“I remember the days when I had nothing, just a ball on the court and a dream of something more. But basketball was my outlet,” Anthony said. He then thanked the people and communities that supported him along the way. “I am forever grateful for those people and places because they made me Carmelo Anthony,” he said.
“Now the time has come for me to say goodbye, to the court where I made my name, to the game that gave me purpose and pride. With this bittersweet goodbye to the NBA, I’m excited about what the future holds for me.”
He also talked about passing on the torch to his 16-year-old son, Kiyan, who he shares with TV personality and actress Lala Anthony.
“When people ask what I believe my legacy is, it’s not my feats on the court that come to mind, nor the awards or praise. ‘Cause my story has always been more than basketball,” Anthony said. “My legacy, my son, it’s in you. I will forever continue through you. ‘Cause the time has come for you to carry this torch. So Ki, face your dreams. Let nothing hold you back. Let nothing intervene. My legacy, now and forever, lives on through you. And I’ll always be proud of all that you do.”
Anthony ends his career as a 10-time NBA All-Star and the league’s ninth all-time leading scorer. We’re wishing this legend the best of luck on his next adventure.
