The journey of an NBA legend is rarely a straight line. For Carmelo Anthony, one of the most prolific scorers in the history of the game, the path to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame was marked by elite dominance, a late-career period of uncertainty, and a triumphant resurgence. Following his induction as part of the star-studded Class of 2025, former teammate CJ McCollum sat down to discuss the impact and legacy of the man known globally as “Melo.”
In an exclusive shared by Landon Buford, McCollum provided an intimate look at Anthony’s preparation, his influence in the locker room, and the bond they formed during their time together with the Portland Trail Blazers.
A Unanimous Call: The Hall of Fame Milestone
When the 2025 Hall of Fame class was announced—featuring icons like Dwight Howard, Sue Bird, and Maya Moore—there was little doubt about Anthony’s inclusion. Over 19 seasons, Anthony amassed a resume that stands among the greatest to ever play: ten All-Star selections, three Olympic Gold Medals, a scoring title, and a spot on the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team.
As noted in the report by Buford, current Blazers star Damian Lillard summed up the sentiment perfectly, stating that Anthony being a Hall of Famer was “an easy call” with “no debating.” However, for CJ McCollum, the induction is about more than just the 22.5 career points per game; it is a testament to Anthony’s character and professional longevity.
“I’m really happy about Melo going into the Hall of Fame,” McCollum told Buford. “A guy I’ve known for a few years now. Great work ethic and great career. He’s a good friend of mine who does things the right way—how he prepares, how he takes care of his body, and how he takes care of his mind.”
The Portland Lifeline and Overcoming Adversity
One of the most compelling chapters of Anthony’s career was his stint in Portland. After a difficult exit from the Houston Rockets and a year-long hiatus from the league, many wondered if the former scoring champion had played his last NBA game.
The report by Buford highlights the pivotal role McCollum and Lillard played in Anthony’s return. The duo advocated for the Blazers’ front office to bring Anthony into the fold, recognizing that his veteran presence and elite skill set were exactly what the team needed. On November 19, 2019, the Blazers signed Anthony, a move that effectively “saved” the final act of his career.
McCollum reflected on this period with gratitude, noting that witnessing Anthony navigate the back end of his career with grace was an inspiration. “Obviously, he went through a lot of adversity toward the back end of his career, but I was grateful to play with him in Portland and be part of his career,” McCollum shared.
Beyond the Hardwood: Wine, Bubbles, and Business
While their chemistry on the court helped the Blazers maintain their status as a Western Conference threat, McCollum and Anthony’s relationship flourished equally off the court. Both players share a sophisticated passion for the wine industry—an interest that famously became a centerpiece of their “bubble” experience during the 2020 NBA restart.
McCollum detailed to Buford how they shared memorable moments over glasses of wine, building a “friendship for life” that transcends basketball. This shared interest in entrepreneurship and lifestyle branding is a hallmark of the modern NBA player, and McCollum noted that he loves seeing “good things happen to good people.”
Life After the Game: The Next Chapter
Now a member of the NBC Sports broadcast team, Anthony has transitioned seamlessly into the media world. McCollum praised his friend’s ability to remain present in the basketball community while excelling in his new role as a broadcaster. Furthermore, McCollum highlighted Anthony’s dedication as a father, noting the success of his son, Kiyan, who is currently carrying on the family legacy at Syracuse.
As the NBA celebrates the 2025 Hall of Fame class, the consensus among his peers is clear: Carmelo Anthony didn’t just play the game; he influenced the culture. Through the lens of CJ McCollum’s reflections, we see a player who was as respected for his mental toughness as he was for his signature jab-step.
Final Thoughts
The story of Carmelo Anthony is one of persistence. From being “out of the league” to standing on the stage at Springfield, his journey serves as a blueprint for veteran resilience. As McCollum’s comments illustrate, Anthony’s legacy is secured not just in the record books, but in the respect of the teammates who fought to keep him on the court.
