Carmelo Anthony has outrageous take on Team USA starting five

Carmelo Anthony announced his retirement from the NBA more than a year ago.

As the 2024 Summer Olympics get closer to Paris, the ten-time All-Star is voicing his thoughts on who he believes should be starting for Team USA.

Who would Anthony choose to start as the starting five for the United States? He originally mentioned the obvious candidates, like Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Kevin Durant, but then changed his mind and selected a younger group.

 

 

Before fans dismiss Melo’s surprising opinion, it’s important to recognize his Olympic success. Anthony is the most decorated Olympian in USA men’s basketball history, with a record four medals (tied with Durant with three golds) and the team’s all-time leader in points, rebounds, and games played. Durant could surpass Anthony in gold medals if Team USA wins this summer, and both Durant and James could match Anthony in total medals if the team places in the top three.

Given their experience, Durant and James are likely starters for coach Steve Kerr. Golden State Warriors point guard Stephen Curry, participating in his first Olympics at 36, is also expected to start.

The remaining two starting spots are open. If the Americans opt for a traditional center, options include Anthony Davis, Bam Adebayo, or Joel Embiid. The final starting position would likely pair with Curry in the backcourt. Devin Booker, known for his shooting, or Anthony Edwards, with a more well-rounded game, are potential candidates.

This would leave Boston Celtics’ Derrick White, Jayson Tatum, and Jrue Holiday, along with Booker, Tyrese Haliburton, and two centers, coming off the bench.

Regardless of the lineup, the Americans are heavy favorites to win their fifth consecutive gold.