Few names in modern basketball carry as much weight as Carmelo Anthony. Known affectionately as “Melo,” he is not only an NBA legend but also a cultural figure whose influence extends far beyond the court. With a career spanning nearly two decades, Anthony became one of the most prolific scorers in league history, a 10-time NBA All-Star, and an Olympic gold medalist. Beyond basketball, he is a businessman, philanthropist, and media personality.

As of 2025, Carmelo Anthony Net Worth is estimated at $160 million, the result of his NBA salaries, endorsement deals, investments, and entrepreneurial ventures. This article dives deep into his age, career highlights, relationships, achievements, and personal life, painting a complete picture of one of the greatest forwards to ever play the game.

Early Life & Age

Carmelo Kyam Anthony was born on May 29, 1984, in Brooklyn, New York, making him 41 years old in 2025. Raised in the Red Hook projects, Anthony faced the hardships of inner-city life early on. His father, Carmelo Iriarte, passed away when Melo was just two years old, leaving his mother, Mary Anthony, to raise the family.

When Anthony was eight, his family relocated to Baltimore, Maryland, where he grew up amidst both challenges and opportunities. It was in Baltimore’s basketball courts that his talent began to shine. His natural scoring ability and charisma quickly made him a local legend.

High School & College Career

Anthony attended Towson Catholic High School before transferring to Oak Hill Academy, a powerhouse basketball program known for producing NBA stars. There, he earned national recognition as one of the top high school players in the country.

In 2002, he committed to Syracuse University. His freshman season would be historic—Anthony led the Orange to their first-ever NCAA Championship in 2003, earning Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four. This single season established him as one of the greatest “one-and-done” college players of all time and made him a top NBA draft prospect.

NBA Career

Denver Nuggets (2003–2011)

Anthony was selected third overall in the 2003 NBA Draft by the Denver Nuggets, behind LeBron James and Darko Miličić. From his rookie year, he made an immediate impact:

• Averaged 21 points per game as a rookie.

• Led the Nuggets to the playoffs for the first time since 1995.

• Became the face of the franchise for nearly a decade.

During his Denver tenure, Anthony was a scoring machine, averaging over 25 points per game multiple seasons. His most successful year with Denver came in 2009, when he led the Nuggets to the Western Conference Finals, falling short to Kobe Bryant’s Lakers.

New York Knicks (2011–2017)

In 2011, Anthony was traded to the New York Knicks, fulfilling his dream of playing in his hometown. While his time in New York was a rollercoaster, he delivered unforgettable moments:

• Scored 62 points in 2014 against the Charlotte Bobcats, setting a Knicks single-game record.

• Led the Knicks to a 54–28 record in 2013, their best season in years.

• Became a seven-time All-Star with New York.

Although the Knicks struggled with consistency, Anthony’s scoring brilliance made him one of Madison Square Garden’s most beloved players.

Later Years (2017–2023)

After leaving the Knicks, Anthony played for several teams:

• Oklahoma City Thunder (2017–2018)

• Houston Rockets (2018)

• Portland Trail Blazers (2019–2021), where he rejuvenated his career as a veteran scorer.

• Los Angeles Lakers (2021–2022), joining close friend LeBron James.

In May 2023, Anthony officially announced his retirement from the NBA, ending his career as the 9th all-time leading scorer with over 28,000 points.

Achievements

• 10× NBA All-Star

• 6× All-NBA Team selection

• NBA Scoring Champion (2013)

• NCAA Champion (2003, Syracuse)

• 3× Olympic Gold Medalist (2008, 2012, 2016)

• Olympic Bronze Medalist (2004)

• 9th All-Time in NBA Scoring

• Knicks’ single-game scoring record: 62 points (2014)

Anthony is also celebrated as the most decorated Olympian in U.S. men’s basketball history, with four total medals.

Carmelo Anthony Net Worth

As of 2025, Carmelo Anthony Net Worth stands at approximately $160 million. His wealth comes from a blend of NBA earnings, endorsements, business ventures, and media projects.

NBA Salaries

Throughout his career, Anthony earned an estimated $262 million in NBA contracts, making him one of the highest-earning players in league history. At his peak, he signed a five-year, $124 million contract with the New York Knicks in 2014.

Endorsements

Melo’s endorsements boosted his fortune considerably:

• Long-term deal with Jordan Brand, where he released over 13 signature shoes.

• Partnerships with Foot Locker, Panini, Powercoco, and Isotonix.

• Media appearances and branded content further increased his visibility.

Business Ventures

Anthony is not just an athlete but an entrepreneur:

• Melo7 Tech Partners: A venture capital firm co-founded with Stuart Goldfarb, investing in startups like Lyft and SeatGeek.

• Wine Business: Founder of The Seventh Estate, a wine label launched in 2021.

• Media Projects: Co-host of “What’s in Your Glass?”—a digital wine talk show combining his passion for wine and conversation.

These ventures ensure that Carmelo Anthony Net Worth continues to grow even post-retirement.

Relationships & Personal Life

Family

Carmelo’s Puerto Rican and African-American heritage shaped his cultural identity. He often credits his mother, Mary, as his greatest inspiration.

Marriage & Relationships

Anthony married La La Vazquez, an MTV VJ and actress, in 2010 after years of dating. The couple welcomed a son, Kiyan Carmelo Anthony, in 2007.

Their marriage faced challenges, including a publicized separation in 2017. Though they reconciled briefly, La La filed for divorce in 2021. Despite this, they remain committed co-parents to Kiyan, who is now a budding basketball star.

Lifestyle

Anthony is known for his love of fashion, wine, and philanthropy. He splits his time between Los Angeles and New York, balancing business projects with family life.

Philanthropy & Activism

Carmelo has always been passionate about giving back:

• Founded the Carmelo Anthony Foundation, supporting youth programs, education, and disaster relief.

• Donated millions to Syracuse University, including funding a state-of-the-art basketball facility.

• Advocated for social justice and criminal justice reform, participating in campaigns alongside fellow athletes like LeBron James and Chris Paul.

• During the Flint water crisis, he contributed resources to help residents access clean drinking water.

His activism has made him not just a sports icon but also a voice for change.

Legacy & Cultural Impact

Carmelo Anthony’s legacy extends beyond basketball. He is remembered as:

• One of the greatest scorers in NBA history.

• A cultural icon who influenced fashion, sneaker culture, and urban identity.

• A philanthropist who consistently gave back to his community.

• An athlete who successfully transitioned into business and media, securing his post-retirement future.

Though he never won an NBA championship, his career achievements and impact ensure his place in basketball history.

Quick Facts

Carmelo Anthony’s journey is one of resilience, brilliance, and influence. From a tough upbringing in Brooklyn and Baltimore to the heights of NBA stardom, he crafted a career defined by scoring excellence, Olympic glory, and business acumen.

With a net worth of $160 million, Anthony is more than just a basketball legend—he is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and cultural figure whose impact will continue for years to come. Though his playing days are behind him, his influence on the sport and the communities he serves remains undeniable.