In Rio de Janeiro, amidst accumulating international honors, New York Knicks star Carmelo Anthony expressed indifference towards critics questioning his NBA achievements.
During an interview at the Rio Olympics, Anthony affirmed that potentially becoming the first U.S. male basketball player to secure three Olympic gold medals significantly alleviates any disappointment from his relatively limited NBA playoff success, which includes only one conference finals appearance and two second-round advancements.
“Most athletes never get to claim a single gold medal, let alone three,” Anthony stated. “I would retire with immense satisfaction, knowing I dedicated my all to the sport, performing at an elite level through high school, college—where I won a championship with Syracuse—and potentially achieving three Olympic golds.”
“Even if my career concludes without an NBA championship ring,” he added, “I`ll still reflect and confidently say I had a great career.”
The 32-year-old Anthony cemented his place in history on Wednesday night, becoming the all-time leading scorer in U.S. men`s Olympic basketball. His remarkable 31-point performance, including nine three-pointers, was pivotal in Team USA`s 98-88 triumph over Australia.
Competing in his fourth Olympics, Anthony`s career total now stands at 293 points, surpassing the previous record holder, LeBron James, by 20 points, who participated in three Olympic Games.
David Robinson (270 points) and Michael Jordan (256 points) rank third and fourth on the U.S. all-time scoring list. Globally, Brazil`s Oscar Schmidt holds the Olympic men`s record with 1,093 points, though he played without the minute restrictions common for players on dominant teams like Team USA.
Team USA forward Paul George praised Anthony`s impactful play against Australia, remarking, “He was eager for that moment. He was exceptional tonight. We playfully call this his farewell tour, but he truly delivered. He was the reason we secured the victory.”
A 13-year NBA veteran and Knicks star for six seasons, Anthony previously earned Olympic gold medals with the United States in 2008 and 2012, following a bronze medal finish in 2004.
“Naturally, in the NBA, the ultimate goal is an NBA championship,” Anthony acknowledged. “However, a new champion emerges annually, offering a yearly chance at that title. Olympic gold, in contrast, is an opportunity that arises only every four years.”
Team USA coach Mike Krzyzewski commended Anthony`s clutch performance, particularly his 14 fourth-quarter points, which were instrumental in the Americans` victory in an unexpectedly tight game.
“Carmelo Anthony is an outstanding player, both domestically and globally – truly one of the world`s best,” Krzyzewski told SportsCenter. “He possesses unparalleled experience in international basketball among our team members and has served as our leader throughout this journey.”