Michael Jordan's expert scoring tip to Carmelo Anthony: "Break down seven points a quarter"
Carmelo Anthony is one of the most prolific scorers in history. One could say that this is a product of sheer talent and perseverance. NBA fans have seen Hoodie Melo in action, the mystery man who cannot seem to miss shots in open gym sessions and shootaround. Even at the tail end of his career, the man is still trying to perfect the craft of scoring.
An easy way to drop 30
Apart from his initiative, a good reason for Anthony's scoring prowess is the expert advice he received from none other than Michael Jordan. In an interview with MILLION DOLLAZ WORTH OF GAME, Anthony revealed that after signing with the Jordan brand, he spent a week and a half with MJ himself. The Chicago Bulls legend taught him to watch game film and score the ball.
At first, Anthony was apprehensive about getting some scoring tips. The young Melo was oozing with confidence and thought he knew everything about the art of putting the ball through the net. But upon hearing MJ's advice, he got a firsthand taste of Jordan's genius and how he viewed the game.
“Say you average about 28, there’s an easy way to get it. He [Jordan] said, ‘Break down 7 points a quarter. That’s 2-3 layups, 2-3 free throws. You get hot one quarter, you might have 11, 12, 13 (points) one quarter, now second quarter you can pace, you get your 14 (points) in two quarters.' So, I’m like, ‘That’s crazy’ and I’m thinking about that in the games. So, next season I have almost 30 (points per game).”
Carmelo Anthony
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All-time scoring list
Skimming through Melo's averages through the years reveals that he was close to averaging 30 points per game numerous times. In 2013, he averaged 28.7 points per game and was crowned scoring champion.
As of writing, Anthony is in ninth place in the all-time scoring list. He's 500-600 points away from overtaking the Big Diesel Shaquille O'Neal. With plenty of season left and how Melo's been performing, there is a good chance the Baltimore native would move up the scoring ladder.
Though Melo no longer averages close to 30 points per game, foes still see him as a legitimate threat on offense. Even at this point in his career, opposing teams are well-aware that Anthony is a three-level scorer. Rotating off him is one of the most foolish things a defender could do.
Amid their roller-coaster season, Lakers fans still light up upon seeing Anthony heading to the scorer's table, taking his warmers off, getting ready to check-in. They know for a fact that when Melo is on the floor, they are about to witness a scoring spectacle.