Carmelo Anthony
Photo: Los Angeles Lakers/Twitter

Recently retired NBA star Carmelo Anthony shared his perspective on retiring without an NBA championship, emphasizing that he is at peace with his career and proud of his accomplishments. Despite a decorated career that includes leading the league in scoring, multiple All-NBA selections, and numerous All-Star appearances, Anthony acknowledges the absence of a championship ring.

As the only top-five pick from the historic 2003 draft class without a championship, Melo understands the label that accompanies this distinction. However, he has come to terms with the idea that winning a championship does not define his success or character.

Anthony reflects on his journey, pointing out that he considers himself a winner since the night he was drafted in 2003 and made it out of his challenging upbringing in Red Hook. While a championship would have been a significant achievement, he has no regrets, knowing he gave his all in pursuit of that goal.

“I’m at peace. That doesn’t bother me no more; that idea that you’re a loser if you don’t win a championship,” Anthony said, via Chris Herring of Sports Illustrated. “For me, I’ve won. I won back in 2003, the night I shook David Stern’s hand on that [draft] stage. I made it out of Red Hook. I’ve won at life. The ring is the only thing I didn’t get. It would’ve been a great accomplishment, but I don’t regret it, because I feel like I did everything I could to get it.”