SUMMARY
- Carmelo Anthony, one of the NBA's greatest scorers, retired on May 22, 2023, after an impressive 19-season career.
- Udonis Haslem retired on June 28, 2023, after an exceptional 20-year career, all with the Heat.
In 2023, several renowned players announced their retirements in the NBA. These players not only left a lasting impression on their respective teams but also on the entire league.
Let’s take a closer look at the careers of four of these stars and their contributions to the game. The list includes Carmelo Anthony, Udonis Haslem, LaMarcus Aldridge, and Goran Dragic.
Carmelo Anthony (May 22, 2023)
Carmelo Anthony, one of the NBA’s greatest scorers, announced his retirement on May 22, 2023, after playing 19 seasons in the league. Anthony’s basketball career started with a successful freshman year at Syracuse University, where he led the Orange to a national championship in 2003 and earned the title of NCAA Tournament’s Most Outstanding Player. His early success led him into the NBA as the third overall pick by the Denver Nuggets in the 2003 draft.
Breaking: Carmelo Anthony has announced his retirement from the NBA after 19 seasons via social media. pic.twitter.com/c6a7WNcjRN
— ESPN (@espn) May 22, 2023
Anthony quickly made a name for himself in the league, earning ten NBA All-Star selections and six All-NBA Team honors. He was named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team. From 2004 to 2010, Anthony and the Nuggets consistently made it to the playoffs and won two division titles. His 62-point game in 2014, while playing for the New York Knicks, not only set personal and franchise records but also showed his exceptional scoring skills.
Apart from the Nuggets and Knicks, Anthony played for several teams, including the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Portland Trail Blazers, and the Los Angeles Lakers. His Olympic career was also outstanding, with three gold medals and a bronze, and he remains the US team’s all-time leader in points, rebounds, and games played.
Udonis Haslem (June 28, 2023)
The Miami Heat’s renowned player, Udonis Haslem, announced his retirement on June 28 2023 after playing for 20 years with the team. He went to the University of Florida for college, where he was an important player for the Gators.
Despite a controversial high school career, where he faced challenges regarding residency requirements, Haslem’s talent was noticeable. He started his professional career in France before joining the Miami Heat in 2003, where he became the longest-tenured player in franchise history.
Udonis Haslem officially announces retirement after 20 years with the Heat 🔥🙏 pic.twitter.com/1j4SQOel8n
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) July 28, 2023
Haslem’s career with the Heat is highlighted by three NBA championship wins (2006, 2012, 2013). Haslem’s legacy goes beyond his on-court achievements, as he is currently the vice president of basketball development for the Heat.
LaMarcus Aldridge (March 31, 2023)
LaMarcus Aldridge, known for his signature fadeaway jump shot, announced his retirement on March 31, 2023. Aldridge’s basketball journey started in Dallas, Texas, where he did his high school. He spent two seasons playing for the Texas Longhorns, after withdrawing from the 2004 NBA draft.
His decision to attend college was reportedly influenced by Shaquille O’Neal’s advice, and he was selected second overall in the 2006 NBA draft. Aldridge’s nine seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers solidified his status as a top player in the league, earning five All-NBA team selections and seven NBA All-Star appearances.
BREAKING: LaMarcus Aldridge announces his retirement from the NBA. pic.twitter.com/SQYtEkOPfg
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) March 31, 2023
Aldridge’s career took a dramatic turn in 2021 when he signed with the Brooklyn Nets. However, he took retirement two weeks later due to an irregular heartbeat. But he made a successful return the following season after receiving medical clearance. Aldridge left a lasting impression on the game, especially with the Trail Blazers and the San Antonio Spurs, where he played from 2015 to 2021.
Goran Dragic (31 December, 2023)
Goran Dragic also known as “the Dragon,” announced his retirement from the NBA career on December 31st, after 15 years in the league. Dragic played professional basketball in Slovenia and Spain before entering the NBA in 2008. During his career, he played for the Phoenix Suns, Miami Heat, Houston Rockets, Toronto Raptors, Brooklyn Nets, Chicago Bulls, and the Milwaukee Bucks.
His most notable achievements include an All-NBA Third Team selection in 2014 and the NBA Most Improved Player award with the Suns. He made his first and only NBA All-Star appearance in 2018 while playing for the Miami Heat.
What a career. It’s been an honor, brate! We love you @Goran_Dragic! 🐉 pic.twitter.com/ip6IPIHD6Z
— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) December 31, 2023
Dragic also has a storied international career. He led the Slovenian national team to its first FIBA EuroBasket title in 2017, earning the MVP title for the tournament. With this win, Dragic became a national hero in Slovenia. His deep connection to Miami can be seen by touching gestures like billboards in Slovenia from the Heat, highlighting the impact he had on the team and fans.