When Carmelo Anthony picked Michael Jordan over his friend LeBron James in G.O.A.T. debate
Carmelo Anthony considers LeBron James one of his best friends, but Anthony picked Michael Jordan over the latter as the greatest player of all time.
In an interview with Colin Ward-Henninger of CBS Sports in 2020, Anthony discussed the G.O.A.T. debate at the height of "The Last Dance" documentary. The ten-time All-Star did not like talking about it but conceded that Jordan is the greatest ever while also making sure that James got his flowers.
"You know, M.J. is the GOAT," Anthony said. "He's the greatest ever. We all know that, and we all agree to that. Why can't we say that but also give LeBron his flowers while he's here too? Why can't we say, 'M.J. was very great. LeBron is very great. Kobe is very great.' We're not allowed to say those things today because it's always this or that, and that's just our society. You have to choose one."
LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony met in 2002 as two of the best high school players in the nation.
Both entered the NBA in 2003, becoming teammates for the LA Lakers last season. The duo also have a close friendship with Chris Paul and Dwyane Wade, with the quartet being called the "Banana Boat Crew."
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Carmelo Anthony named FIBA World Cup ambassador
Carmelo Anthony has not played in the NBA this season, and his future is up in the air. However, Anthony will be active this summer after being named an ambassador for the 2023 FIBA World Cup in the Philippines, Japan and Indonesia.
"I've proudly represented the USA on the world's largest stages, and the World Cup is the toughest competition in international basketball," Anthony said during his media presentation. "It's all about striking a perfect balance of personnel, talent and having that great chemistry. I'm looking forward to supporting all the players at the World Cup this year and celebrating the sport on a global scale."
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LeBron James out indefinitely with right foot injury
LeBron James suffered a right foot injury in the LA Lakers' comeback win over the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday (Feb. 26). James will be re-evaluated in two weeks, but his return date remains uncertain.
"The King" was present in the Lakers' matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies two days later. He was on the bench wearing a walking boot, which is indicative of the severity of his injury.
James has been dealing with left foot soreness for most of the season, and his new injury has only exacerbated things for the Lakers. They're looking to make the playoffs but might have to do so with their best player for at least the next two weeks.
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