Carmelo Anthony Net Worth, Age, Family, Career & More

Carmelo Anthony’s name stands tall in basketball history as one of the greatest scorers the NBA has ever seen. Known for his silky jump shot, physical strength, and ability to deliver in big moments, Anthony carved out a legendary career spanning two decades. From his NCAA championship run at Syracuse to his stardom in Denver and New York, Melo built not only a basketball legacy but also an impressive financial empire. In 2025, his net worth, family story, and post-retirement ventures highlight the lasting impact of one of the game’s brightest stars.

Early Life and Background

Carmelo Kyam Anthony was born on May 29, 1984, in Red Hook, Brooklyn, New York, making him 41 years old in 2025. His childhood was marked by hardship after the death of his father when Melo was only two years old. At age eight, his family relocated to Baltimore, where life in a tough neighborhood pushed him toward basketball as both a passion and a way out. Standing out at Towson Catholic High School, Anthony grew into one of the nation’s top recruits after a five-inch growth spurt in 1999. By the time he committed to Syracuse University, he was already destined for greatness.

Syracuse and NCAA Championship Glory

Anthony’s college career lasted just one season, but it was unforgettable. In 2003, he led the Syracuse Orange to their first-ever NCAA championship, averaging 22.2 points and 10 rebounds per game. His performance in the Final Four, particularly his 33-point outburst against Texas, earned him the Most Outstanding Player award. That single season established him as a can’t-miss NBA prospect.

NBA Career and Achievements

Drafted third overall in the legendary 2003 NBA Draft, Carmelo Anthony joined the Denver Nuggets after LeBron James and Darko Miličić. He immediately made his mark, averaging over 20 points as a rookie. For seven seasons, he carried Denver to the playoffs, highlighted by a trip to the 2009 Western Conference Finals.

In 2011, he was traded to the New York Knicks, where he played some of his best basketball. During the 2012–13 season, Melo led the league in scoring with 28.7 points per game and became a staple of Madison Square Garden highlights. Over his career, Anthony collected 10 NBA All-Star selections and six All-NBA Team honors. He retired in 2023 ranked ninth on the NBA’s all-time scoring list with 28,289 points, averaging 22.5 per game across his career.

His stops included the Nuggets, Knicks, Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Atlanta Hawks, Chicago Bulls, and Portland Trail Blazers. While he never won an NBA championship, his ability to score at will left him recognized as one of the most lethal offensive players of his era.

Olympic Career

Anthony’s achievements weren’t limited to the NBA. Representing Team USA in four Olympic Games, he became the all-time leading scorer in U.S. men’s Olympic basketball history. He won a bronze medal in 2004 and followed with gold medals in 2008, 2012, and 2016. His loyalty to Team USA made him a respected leader internationally and cemented his legacy as one of the country’s most decorated basketball players.

Net Worth and Career Earnings

As of 2025, Carmelo Anthony’s net worth is estimated at $160 million. His financial success stems from both his NBA contracts and off-court business ventures. Over his career, Anthony earned about $260 million in salary alone, with his peak annual salary hitting $26 million during the 2017–18 season.

Endorsements brought in an additional $9 million per year at his peak, with major deals in sneakers and lifestyle brands. Between June 2017 and June 2018, he earned a staggering $33 million from salary and endorsements combined.

His contracts were spread across multiple teams: $53 million with the Denver Nuggets, $136 million with the New York Knicks, $26 million with the Oklahoma City Thunder, $25.5 million with the Hawks, and smaller deals with the Rockets and Trail Blazers.

Personal Life and Family

Carmelo married television personality La La Vasquez in 2010 after years of engagement. The couple welcomed their son, Kiyan Carmelo Anthony, in March 2007. However, the marriage faced turbulence, with separations reported in 2017 and La La filing for divorce in 2021.

During his relationship with La La, Carmelo fathered another child, Genesis Harlo, with Mia Burks. Although he keeps Genesis out of the spotlight, Anthony has acknowledged her and contributes to her upbringing. His role as a father remains central to his life even as his marriage ended.

Business, Real Estate, and Philanthropy

Carmelo has made smart business and philanthropic moves alongside basketball. In 2015, he founded Puerto Rico FC in the North American Soccer League. He also led a $5 million investment into Nobodys Pizza in 2018 and launched his own production company, Creative 7, in 2021.

His real estate ventures include a $12 million Denver mansion, which he sold at a loss, and an $11 million New York condo he purchased in 2015. Despite fluctuations in property value, his real estate investments reflect his long-term financial planning.

Philanthropically, Anthony has donated millions, including $3 million to Syracuse University and $1.5 million to the Living Classrooms Foundation. His efforts to give back have earned him recognition as one of the most charitable athletes, ranking high on lists of celebrity donors.

Hall of Fame Induction

In 2025, Carmelo Anthony was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, an honor that celebrates his scoring brilliance and contributions to the sport. While he may not have won an NBA championship, his Hall of Fame status underscores that legacy is about more than rings.