Before concluding his illustrious basketball career, Carmelo Anthony proudly represented Team USA on the international stage, winning three Olympic gold medals. Recently, the Team USA men’s basketball team secured their fifth consecutive gold medal at the Paris Olympics. Though Anthony is no longer part of the team, he has every reason to be proud of his contributions.
In a recent interview with BasketNews’ Donatas Urbonas, Anthony shared his all-time Team USA starting five. Surprisingly, he excluded one of the greatest basketball players, Michael Jordan, from his all-time starting lineup. Instead, he included himself, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant, and Charles Barkley.
“Myself, Durant, LeBron, Kobe. Michael Jordan would be that [fifth player], but for the USA, I would put Barkley,” Anthony said.
The former NBA star was aware that leaving Jordan off the list might spark some controversy among fans. To clarify his decision, he explained that Jordan’s limited experience in FIBA basketball influenced his choice.
“What he [Jordan] did with the ’92 team, that would never be done, but the fact that he only played in that one Olympics, I’m looking at guys who had a career in FIBA basketball,” Anthony added.
Carmelo Anthony Also Snubs Michael Jordan in His Ultimate FIBA Team USA Picks
Donatas Urbonas later asked Carmelo Anthony about his list of the greatest FIBA Team USA players. Surprisingly, this time, Melo also snubbed Jordan while sticking with his earlier choices.
“LeBron, Durant, myself, and again, you have to throw in Kobe in there. Kobe played two [Olympics], but I would just say the fact that we played more Olympics and had more opportunities—four Olympics is a long time. Kobe played in two Olympics, and KD played four. Those are Mount Olympus when it comes to the Olympians,” he said.
Throughout his basketball career, Jordan won two Olympic gold medals. Anthony acknowledged the incredible impact Jordan had on Team USA. But, for Anthony, it’s about honoring those who contributed significantly to Team USA over multiple international competitions.
