“I can’t be the fourth option!” – Carmelo Anthony reveals why he declined joining LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh in Miami

Anthony's decision ultimately led to him staying in Denver, where he continued to build his legacy.

“I can’t be the fourth option!” – Carmelo Anthony reveals why he declined joining LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh in Miami

Carmelo Anthony and LeBron James

Carmelo Anthony recently opened up about his decision not to join the Miami Heat’s iconic “Big Three” alongside LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh. In a candid conversation on Paul George’s podcast, Anthony shared that he and LeBron had discussed teaming up, but couldn’t agree on a location and he was committed to building his legacy in Denver and had signed a five-year deal with the Nuggets.

Anthony explained that he wasn’t willing to take a reduced role and salary to join the Heat, especially when he was leading his team in Denver. He respected the sacrifices LeBron James, Wade, and Bosh made to form the “Big Three,” but it wasn’t the right fit for him. 

These are alphas coming together—Bron is an alpha, D-Wade is an alpha. And Chris Bosh doesn’t get enough credit; he was ridiculous in Toronto. So, for those three to go, I was like, 'Hell no, I can’t be the fourth option. Hell no.' I was cool in Denver.
Carmelo Anthony on Paul George’s “Podcast P”

Anthony’s decision ultimately led to him staying in Denver, where he continued to build his legacy. He acknowledged that people often view his choice as a “what if” moment, but he believes it was the right decision for his career and personal growth.

In the end, Anthony’s decision allowed him to maintain his leadership role and continue growing as a player in Denver, rather than becoming a fourth option on a team with established alphas like James, Wade, and Bosh. Although, he ended up teaming up with The King at the Los Angeles Lakers.

LeBron James saved Carmelo Anthony from drowning in Bahamas

Carmelo Anthony and LeBron James share a unique bond that goes beyond their friendship and NBA careers. In a remarkable story, Anthony revealed that James saved him from drowning in the waters of the Bahamas during a vacation. Anthony had wandered too far from the boat while snorkeling and got caught in a strong current, leaving him struggling to stay afloat.

I told people this story before, I said listen, I’ve seen LeBron do a lot of major things on the court. Off the court, when he went and saved Melo’s life
Dwyane Wade said on a live stream with Carmelo Anthony and Gabrielle Union

James, who was on the boat with Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union, jumped into the water and swam out to rescue Anthony, carrying him back to the boat with one arm. Anthony has always been grateful for James’ heroic act, which he credits with saving his life. The incident has only strengthened their friendship, with Anthony often referring to James as his “hero.”

The story, which Anthony has shared publicly, highlights the special bond between the two NBA stars. Wade, who was also present during the incident, has praised James’ bravery and selflessness, saying that it’s a testament to his character both on and off the court. The incident has become a defining moment in their friendship, one that they will always cherish.

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