Carmelo Anthony, newly inducted into the 2025 Basketball Hall of Fame, has expressed his hope to see the New York Knicks retire his No. 7 jersey, a significant honor that would underscore his impactful tenure with the team.
“Why not? … I would love to see that,” Anthony said during the Naismith Hall of Fame Class of 2025 inductee news conference. “For me, it’s like, ‘Why wait?’ If you got to think about it, then cool — just let it be.”
Will the New York Knicks Retire Carmelo Anthony’s Jersey?
Anthony, a 10-time NBA All-Star, played for the Knicks from 2010 to 2017, the second-longest stint in his career after his time with the Denver Nuggets. His tenure in New York was highlighted by leading the NBA in scoring during the 2012-13 season with an average of 28.7 points per game, along with 6.9 rebounds and 2.6 assists, showcasing his dominance on the court.
The forward’s influence extended beyond statistics, as he became a key figure in the Knicks’ identity and a fan favorite during his years at Madison Square Garden. His potential jersey retirement would place him alongside Knicks legends such as Walt Frazier, Dick Barnett, Willis Reed, and Patrick Ewing, whose numbers have also been immortalized by the franchise.
Aside from his contributions to the Knicks, Anthony’s career was distinguished by his participation in the 2008 United States men’s Olympic basketball team, further solidifying his legacy in the sport.
Will the Denver Nuggets Retire Carmelo Anthony’s Jersey?
Anthony’s sense of humor and perspective were evident when discussing the potential retirement of his number in Denver, where his No. 15 jersey is currently worn by three-time MVP Nikola Jokic.
“F— it, put both up lol,” Anthony joked on social media. “Two different type of players. No comparisons only respect,” he added, emphasizing the distinct contributions each has made to their respective eras in basketball.
Though Anthony never secured an NBA championship, his enduring impact on the game and on Knicks fans is undeniable. As the basketball community celebrates his Hall of Fame induction, the possibility of his jersey hanging from the rafters at Madison Square Garden remains a poignant topic for both Anthony and his supporters.
