We’re in that familiar stage of the Hall of Fame buzz where the “what ifs” start circulating. One conversation making the rounds on social media is whether Carmelo Anthony should have acknowledged his ex-wife, La La Anthony, during his enshrinement. Some fans speculated that his remarks about the important women in his life might have been a subtle nod to her, given that their relationship coincided with much of his NBA career. Others, however, felt that the focus of the weekend was rightly on his son, Kiyan, and the people most central to his journey at this point.

The Breakfast Club weighed in on the topic twice: first, on whether Melo’s speech indirectly referenced La La, and later, after fan reactions, on whether she should have been mentioned more directly at all.

Charlamagne praised Melo for mentioning everyone who supported him throughout his career but added, “I was waiting for him to speak on La La though. He didn’t mention La La.”

They were aware that La La was occupied during the weekend. She’s filming her upcoming Hulu show, Group Chat with Kim Kardashian and dropped by Kai Cenat’s Mafiathon 3 live stream on September 6. She however had an emotional reaction to Kiyan’s heartwarming tribute to Melo. The hosts felt that La La was indirectly referenced in Melo’s speech too.

Despite the subtle Easter eggs on both sides, Loren wanted more. “I thought she would be there. Even though I know they’ve gone through their like, divorce or whatever. Well, she was a huge force in his career.” Even Charlamagne said, “she always supported him.”

Their opinions however, were not well received. It reached a point where they were discussing this for the next two broadcasts as well.

The following day a caller on The Breakfast Club argued with the hosts for suggesting that La La deserved a shoutout. While the caller was entitled to their opinion, his comments about the BMF star crossed a line and the hosts defended her.

The Breakfast Club debates La La and Carmelo Anthony’s history

Charlamagne Tha God reiterated two things – one, he was merely stirring a debate and second, he counts both La La and Carmelo Anthony among his friends. He thought- and he couldn’t stress on that word enough – that. “Somewhere in there La La could’ve got a shout out.” Despite that, Charlamagne did admit that mentioning his ex-wife would’ve taken from Carmelo Anthony’s spotlight.

It’s something fans do feel as comments like, “Stop making his special moment about anything but him.” abounded.

The exes met and began dating in 2004, a year after Melo was selected in the 2003 NBA draft. They welcomed their son, Kiyan in 2007, and married in 2010. By the hosts reckoning, being together throughout their career warranted a mention. But fans pointed out the potential awkwardness about mentioning an ex during a Hall of Fame speech. “Why should he have mentioned her? They not together no more…” was one of the more tastefully phrased comments on this theme.

Those on the other side of this argument felt that La La being present during his career and contributing it are two separate things. Or as someone said, “She wasn’t with him shooting in the gym!!” Which is a little unfair considering Melo mentioned people who didn’t exactly put time with him on the court but pushed him.

Some praised Charlamagne for defending La La against the caller’s comments. And their close friends would not be amiss to talk about a friendly shoutout between the exes. Melo and LaLa finalized their divorce in 2021. Within days of filing and during divorce proceedings, they were seen together at Kiyan’s games. They were a united front on 7PM in Brooklyn when Kiyan committed to Syracuse.

La La especially gets emotional when Kiyan’s big moments intersect with his dad’s. Like when the former LuHi guard won MVP at the Jordan Classic, a feat Melo accomplished 23 years ago. She was there when Melo gave their son his MVP jacket and shared multiple posts about it on social media. She had similar heartwarming feelings during the Hall of Fame weekend. It’s probably why some of her defenders believe, “LaLa would have mentioned him tho. She still would considering. Nevertheless, Congrats King 🤴🏾!!”

The Breakfast Club still maintain their stance. Charlamagne also said that his opinion wouldn’t change if he didn’t personally know La La. Most fans believe the only person who should be crediting her for their success is Kiyan. “He doesn’t owe her anything or any recognition. They’re not married anymore. Her/His son can give her a shoutout when he makes it.”

We’ll wait for the day Kiyan can give La La a shoutout. For now, this debate’s not inconclusive.