Carmelo Anthony may not have won an NBA championship but holds three Olympic gold medals. He was part of three consecutive gold medal teams in 2008, 2012, and 2016. For Anthony, these medals carry a unique significance that goes beyond the typical NBA title.

Carmelo Anthony shares priority on Olympic gold over NBA title

In a conversation with BasketNews, Anthony, who recently shared insights on his Thunder career, was asked if he would trade his three Olympic gold medals for an NBA championship. His response highlighted the deep pride and honor he feels for his Olympic accomplishments to represent his own country on the international stage.

“For me, a medal means something totally different than an NBA Championship,” Anthony said.

“Both have their own separate meaning, but winning a gold medal—it’s the passion, it’s the pride that you have not just for a city or a state, but for a whole nation, a whole country that you’re winning it for,” he added.

Bogdan Bogdanovic Pays Tribute to Carmelo Anthony During Semifinal Thriller

Carmelo Anthony’s legacy in Olympic basketball continues to inspire players around the world, including Serbia’s Bogdan Bogdanovic. During the semifinals of the Paris Olympics, where Team USA upset Team Serbia, Bogdanovic paid homage to Anthony by mimicking one of his iconic gestures after making each of his three 3-pointers. Following Serbia’s bronze medal victory over Germany on Saturday, Bogdanovic explained the meaning behind his actions.

“If you know me, then you know that I enjoy the game. I like to compete, and I will always compete. It’s fire. I’ve been doing (the gesture) for a long time. I know somebody’s thinking it’s provocation or something,” Bogdanovic said.

“For me, it’s just enjoyment and competitiveness for the sport and respect for him. I look at him over there as a legend. Nothing more than respect and competitiveness,” he added.

Bogdanovic again made his respect for Melo clear on social media. Anthony left the basketball court forever. Yet he left an illustrious career to remain a revered figure in the world of basketball.