Carmelo Anthony had a straightforward response when asked if he would trade his Olympic gold medals for an NBA Finals championship.

In a recent interview with ‘BasketNews,’ Anthony was questioned about whether he would swap his three gold medals for an NBA ring, something he missed out on during his 19-year career.

His answer was a firm no.

Anthony emphasized that winning a gold medal represents something entirely different compared to securing an NBA championship. For him, the pride and passion associated with representing his country outweigh the value of an NBA title.

“Winning a gold medal, it’s the passion, it’s the pride, that you have not just for a city, or a state, but for a whole nation, a whole country you’re winning for,” Anthony said.

Anthony ranks third all-time in Olympic points with 336, trailing only LeBron James (358) and Kevin Durant (518).

Additionally, he holds the record for the most points in a single game, scoring 37 in just 14 minutes during Team USA’s 156-73 victory over Nigeria in the 2012 Olympics.

Carmelo Anthony and Pau Gasol embrace in the first half between France and Canada in a mens basketball quarterfinal game during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Accor Arena.

Carmelo Anthony was spotted at the 2024 Paris Games supporting Team USA.

Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Anthony reflected on the unique feeling of playing for Team USA compared to his NBA teams.

“It’s a different level of pride when you’re wearing USA across your chest,” he noted.

“It’s a totally different feeling than when you’re wearing Knicks, New York across your chest,” he added.

As one of the most decorated Olympic basketball players in U.S. history, it’s clear that Anthony’s pride in his Olympic achievements remains a significant part of his legacy, even compared to the allure of an NBA championship ring.