LONDON — Moments after the gold medal had been clinched, Carmelo Anthony ran over to hug his wife, La La, and his kids to celebrate the moment. Imagine the hugs if Anthony ever led the Knicks to breaking their 40-year championship drought.
Gold medal around his neck following USA’s 107-100 win over gritty Spain, Anthony said the NBA title is the last piece to his resume after winning high school championships, a NCAA championship and two Olympic gold medals.
“It’s the one thing that’s missing is the NBA championship,’’ Anthony said. “I had a chance to win in high school, college, now two gold medals. My next goal is try to win a championship.’’
Tyson Chandler already has that NBA championship ring, but got his first Olympic gold yesterday and he wore it around his neck proudly. Chandler already had a world championships gold, but this one was sweeter.
“When I was hearing the national anthem, I felt someone was pouring hot water down my body,’’ Chandler said. “Chills go through your veins. It’s an unbelievable feeling.’’
Chandler said the gold will mean as much as his championship ring from the Mavericks.
“It’s different,’’ Chandler said. “When you win a championship, you’re the best of your peers. When you win Olympic gold, you’re the best in the world. They both carry the same weight to me. I appreciate them both.’’
Neither Anthony nor Chandler had their best games. Anthony, who had been one of the Olympics’ top snipers, was scoreless across the last three quarters and finished with eight points. Chandler, the team’s lone traditional center, played just 8:42 as coach Mike Krzyzewski elected to turn more to Kevin Love to combat Spain’s size.
Chandler had talked about going to Houston to work with Hakeem Olajuwon on post moves. But Chandler said he has to pass because of logistical issues.
“I’ll take about a week or two off and get back at it,’’ Chandler said. “There’s no need to let this go to waste. I’m in great shape now and want to continue to climb.’’
Anthony, who hurt his quad during the game, said he’s fine.
“I got time to rest,’’ Melo said. “I’m in a great place.’’
** Nets point guard Deron Williams, after winning his second Olympic gold, said he hopes to carry the winning feeling into Brooklyn come October.
“It was a great month to have with the best players in the world,’’ said Williams, who backed up Chris Paul and had six points in 10:25 of action. “It was getting back on the winning track. I’m on an eight-game winning streak right now. It’s my first one in like three years.’’