Let’s recall the iconic moment—when Carmelo Anthony first slid into the Hall of Fame, there was one validation everyone’s waiting for. Allen Iverson’s. And trust me, AI didn’t disappoint. When the news broke, Melo’s mentor didn’t hit him with some basic, tearful congratulations. Not at all! He gave him that usual ice-cold Iverson stamp of approval, the kind of effortless, no-words-needed respect that only legends understand. And for a dude like Melo, who’s been chasing the Answer‘s aura since he was a rookie? That’s worth more than any trophy.
Carmelo Anthony frequently talked about how Allen Iverson was more than a teammate—he was a big brother and mentor figure. While playing together in Denver, Melo looked up to AI’s toughness, work ethic, and aggressive style of playing. He learned from Iverson’s experience, on and off the court, and said, “His toughness. The way he grew up. The way I grew up. He was able to persevere from everything he went through off the court and still go out there and perform — his toughness and the big heart he had.” Showing that Melo followed a blueprint set in stone by Allen Iverson.
Allen Iverson took to social media to congratulate Carmelo Anthony. He posted a picture of Carmelo Anthony on Instagram and captioned the post, “Not one authentic basketball head surprised!! Well deserved jack. Congrats to you and yours. Love you to life! @carmeloanthony” and suddenly, Melo’s HOF moment goes from celebrated to certified.
The former NBA superstar had always expressed his desire to leave a legacy behind, like Allen Iverson did in Philadelphia. He once said, “Most important, it’s how he was just solidified into basketball greatness as far as the Hall of Fame goes. Before you can only talk about it, now you see that relief knowing he reached that pinnacle.” Speaking as a fan and a mentee first before a teammate.
These two legends have shared a relationship that has stood the test of time, from being teammates to later calling each other family. Their bond has grown stronger with the passage of time. Let us see how their relationship progressed.
Carmelo Anthony & Allen Iverson: From brothers to Hall of Famers
When Allen Iverson was traded to the Denver Nuggets, Carmelo Anthony was already making waves as one of the league’s rising stars, but he was still young. Still learning. AI was a certified icon by then. He didn’t just bring his game to Denver. He brought wisdom, experience, and a presence that Melo gravitated toward immediately.
Even after their playing days, the respect and love between them never faded. Whenever Melo talks about AI, you can hear the admiration in his voice. And Iverson? He’s always shown Melo love, calling him one of the realest players he’s ever been around. Whether it’s courtside at games, in interviews, or through social media shoutouts, their bond remains as strong as ever. For example, when Carmelo Anthony was contemplating retirement, Allen Iverson offered support, saying, “No way Melo should retire…I believe in him, and I know he’s strong enough. He has a strong foundation behind him as far as his family and friends. I really think he’ll be alright. I’m in Melo’s corner all the way.”
It’s more than just basketball for these two. It’s about brotherhood, legacy, and a deep appreciation for each other’s journey. AI helped shape Melo, and in return, Melo continues to carry that old-school mentality Iverson embodied. Their relationship started on the hardwood, but it has lasted far beyond their years in the league—with both being inducted in the Hall of Fame.
The post After Craving Allen Iverson’s Treatment, Carmelo Anthony’s HOF Nod Met With Ice-Cold Praise From His Mentor appeared first on EssentiallySports.
