LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, and Chris Paul were the smartest players that Carmelo Anthony has faced in his career. Anthony talked about it in the latest episode of the “Sipping Wine” podcast.

Anthony, the third overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft, in the NBA with each of them. While Kobe Bryant was already in the league when Anthony arrived, James was in the same draft class as Anthony. Paul, meanwhile, came into the NBA in 2005. While they were always Melo’s opponents in the NBA, all three have been his teammates on the 2008 and 2012 USA national basketball team. 

When the podcast host asked Melo about the smartest players he has faced in the NBA, he answered: Kobe, LeBron, and Chris Paul.

“It’s Kobe and LeBron as far as being the smartest basketball minds, intellectuals, know everything about the game. Know everything about each player, the ins and outs. Those two guys are at the top when it comes to the mental part of this game. Chris Paul is definitely one of those guys. I would have to say those three,” he said.

LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, & Chris Paul: Unsurprising picks from Carmelo Anthony

These choices do not seem surprising, considering the quality of the players. Bryant and James are certainly among the best players of all-time in the NBA. They have eight Championships and five MVP awards between them. It isn’t surprising that Anthony calls them “smartest” in the league. Also, “smart” is not a word that is far away from Chris Paul, who carries the nickname “Point God”. He will go down as one of the best point guards in the game’s history. 

All three players have also been fan-favorites considering the 44 All-Star appearances that they share between them. Anthony himself has never been far behind as a player. He seems to be nearing an inevitable end to his illustrious career. Although he doesn’t have any titles to his name, he has always been a significant offensive presence for whatever team he has played. He is currently playing for Portland Trail Blazers alongside the likes of Damian Lillard.

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