Carmelo Anthony Reveals the Real Reason Why He Retired

Earlier this year, 19-year NBA veteran Carmelo Anthony announced his official retirement from professional basketball. Although the decision was made just days before his 39th birthday in May, Carmelo had not been seen in action for over a year.

While many believed his retirement was due to difficulties in finding a team, Anthony has now revealed the true reason behind his decision and also shared information about two offers he received to continue playing.

Carmelo's Offers

After a 19-year NBA career that amassed accolades such as 10 All-Star appearances, a scoring title, and a place among the NBA's 75 greatest players of all time, it seems absurd to think that nobody sought an experienced veteran to bolster their team last season.


Unfortunately, that was the narrative after he missed the entirety of last season, despite putting in great performances as a role player with the Trail Blazers and Lakers in previous seasons. While not the high scorer of his prime years, Anthony remained productive, shooting well above 40% and averaging around 13-15 points per game in his final years.

During his new podcast '7PM in Brooklyn' with The Kid Mero, Anthony disclosed that he did receive opportunities to play but ultimately declined them. The first offer came from the New Orleans Pelicans. Although it was another NBA contract, many believed the Pelicans weren't competitive enough for him to consider joining. With Anthony aiming for an NBA championship before retiring, a team that missed the playoffs like the Pelicans wouldn't have been appealing to the aging star.

The second offer was more surprising as it originated from China. Anthony didn't specify the team, but many fans see the Chinese league as a retirement option for NBA veterans like Tracy McGrady and Ty Lawson due to its inferior level compared to the NBA.

Carmelo says China and New Orleans called him to play

(🎥 @7PMinBrooklyn) pic.twitter.com/HsdtjYS3Hw— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) December 5, 2023

Real Reason For His Retirement

Even though there was interest, Anthony disclosed during the same podcast that the reason he declined those opportunities was that he didn't want to exit the game 'on a low note.' Despite an illustrious career that saw him rank 9th in NBA history in points and attain Olympic Gold Medals, he was keen on not letting fans remember him for underwhelming performances towards the twilight of his career.

Seeing players like Vince Carter and Dirk Nowitzki diminish in their final seasons after 20 years in the league, Anthony opted to step away before his decline became too noticeable. He's now focusing more on external business ventures, such as his wine label and his new podcast '7pm In Brooklyn.

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The Spun