Carmelo Anthony, the 10-time NBA All-Star and renowned basketball player from the USA has been named as a Global Ambassador for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023. The event will commence on 25 August 2023 and take place across the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia. Along with other Global Ambassadors such as Argentina’s Luis Scola and Spain’s Pau Gasol, Anthony will play a key role in promoting the World Cup and participate in various activities leading up to FIBA’s primary men’s competition.
“I’ve proudly represented the USA on the world’s largest stages, and the World Cup is the toughest competition in international basketball. 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,” Melo, as the player is fondly called by his fans, said.
This player’s career has been nothing short of remarkable, having achieved a three-time Olympic gold medalist title and being selected for the NBA 75th Anniversary Team. He is also ranked among the Top 10 on the NBA All-Time Scoring List. In the 2006 World Cup held in Japan, Carmelo demonstrated his dynamic and high-scoring abilities, leading the American team to a podium finish and earning a place in the All-Star Five.
During the 2006 World Cup, Melo’s exceptional skills were on full display, with an average of 19.9 points per game. In the Group Phase, he contributed significantly to the USA’s come-from-behind 94-85 victory over Italy by scoring 35 points. This impressive performance led to a three-game winning streak for the Americans, with Carmelo sinking 12 of his 20 attempts from three-point range. Even in their only loss during the competition, a 101-95 Semi-Final defeat to Greece, Carmelo managed to put up a game-high 27 points.
Melo’s exceptional skills were not just limited to the World Cup but extended to the Olympic stage as well. He played a pivotal role in leading the US national team to three unbeaten gold medal victories in 2008, 2012, and 2016, and also secured a bronze medal in 2004. He has left an indelible mark on the US Olympic men’s career record book, holding the second position in the all-time scoring list with 336 points, 113 field goals made, 262 field goals attempted, 125 rebounds, 139 3-point field goals attempted, and 71 free throws attempted. Additionally, he ranks second all-time in three-point field goals made with 57.
Anthony’s basketball journey began in 2004 when he burst onto the scene at the Athens Olympic Games at the age of 20. He continued to showcase his talent by playing in the 2006 World Cup and winning the FIBA AmeriCup in 2007, solidifying his status as a legendary figure in both US and international basketball. His longevity, remarkable scoring ability, and strong leadership qualities have earned him the respect of fans and fellow players alike.