The start of the 2025-26 season marked a new beginning for the NBA. Multiple platforms now bringing the game forward would allow different voices, perspectives, and personalities to shine their light on the product. One major addition was the games on NBC, where one of the biggest additions of the year came in the form of recent Hall of Fame inductee and pillar of the sport for much of the 2000s and 2010s, Carmelo Anthony.
However, in his first appearance for the broadcast, the night did not turn out fully in his favor. While his analysis, solely focused on what went on in between the lines, was refreshing, he caught fans’ eyes for a different reason. His rather comfortable outfit stood in stark contrast to the rest of the analysts on the panel. But, after much speculation, the former scoring champion revealed his mindset regarding the apparel.
Carmelo Anthony Defends Controversial Outfit Choice
It might be a trick of the trade or a by-product of seeing virtually every media member and analyst dressed that way, but fans have come to expect them to look sharp at all times. However, Anthony decided to buck that trend.
A 10-time All-Star with a career that spanned two decades, he would certainly feel at home standing on the hardwood. But, during the season opener at NBC, his outfit choice was a huge departure from the traditional ensemble.
Rather than opt for a suit or a formal ensemble, Anthony was on the court in a tracksuit, with his signature shades and chain. Fans weren’t appreciative of the look, something Marc Stein brought up in his conversation with the three-time Olympic Gold medalist on the latest episode of The Stein Line.
“Of course [it caused a stir]. I’m going to be me. I’m going to bring me to the screen. I just think we get so caught up on the suit and ties and you have to look this way, you have to look that way.” Instead, he argued that the change had begun even before him.
“Coaches ain’t wearing suits no more on the sideline. I think the game of basketball and sports [in general] is just changing. The dynamics [are] changing. The way people talk [about] the game is changing.”
However, like he did in the latter stages of his career, Anthony wasn’t dead set in his ways and was ready to adapt. “We’ll have suits on from time to time, we’ll throw ’em in there, but I think it’s just about being comfortable and being professional up there and being presentable and being able to talk the game of basketball.”
The first taste from a certified legend of the sport as an analyst has been a joy to witness, regardless of his choice of clothing. Now, it’ll be interesting to see if he can continue being a stout voice for basketball.
