American track star Noah Lyles has found himself at odds with the NBA community, especially after making controversial comments in August 2023 that didn’t sit well with many basketball fans and players. Lyles sparked a heated debate when he criticized the NBA’s practice of calling its champions “world champions” following the Finals.
“You know the thing that hurts me the most is that I have to watch the NBA Finals and they have ‘world champion’ on their head,” Lyles said. “World champion of what? The United States? Don’t get me wrong, I love the U.S., at times, but that ain’t the world.”
Lyles has stood by his comments, which has only fueled the tension between him and the NBA community. Recently, the situation was further exacerbated by a leaked story about Lyles expressing frustration with Adidas for inviting him to an event focused on NBA star Anthony Edwards, rather than on track and field.
This ongoing friction prompted former NBA star Carmelo Anthony to weigh in on the latest episode of his 7PM in Brooklyn podcast. Anthony addressed Lyles’ remarks, offering a perspective that many in the basketball world share, but he did so in a composed and thoughtful manner.
“The reason why we call ourselves world champs over here, to what I said earlier, this is our game. The world comes to us, to get the game,” Anthony explained, referring to the international talent that competes in the NBA. “So, yes, we are the world champs. Semantics, I understand… But my thing is, why do you keep shooting at the NBA? If you want to shoot, shoot at the fact that y’all ain’t got no league for your own. Shoot at why they ain’t pour money into that sport… I’d rather you be like, ‘Yo, we need more attention on U.S. track and field association,’ whatever it is.”
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Anthony’s response was measured, acknowledging the global influence of the NBA while also highlighting a valid point about the lack of attention and resources devoted to track and field outside of major events like the Olympics and World Championships.
His comments suggest that instead of taking shots at the NBA, Lyles could use his platform to advocate for greater support and visibility for track and field athletes in the U.S.
The question now is whether Lyles will respond to Carmelo Anthony’s remarks or let the conversation fade. Given Lyles’ outspoken nature, it wouldn’t be surprising if he addresses Anthony’s comments, potentially reigniting the debate.
For now, sports fans are left to see how this ongoing discussion will unfold, and whether it might lead to broader conversations about the support and recognition of different sports in the U.S.
