“He’s similar to a Grant Hill and a Tracy McGrady. He’s long, athletic and got the same kind of abilities at the same stage. If anything, he’s more under control.”
—Carmelo’s coach at Oak Hill Steve Smith

“He’s as good as advertised. He’s a good kid all-around. He’s a good person. He works hard.”
—Former Syracuse teammate Kueth Duany

“I think he’s a fantastic young man. He almost totally transcends age with his approach to the game.”
—NFL Hall of Famer and Syracuse alum Jim Brown

“He’s a team player. He doesn’t care about his own stats. He’ll give the ball up; he’ll rebound if you have to have a rebound.”
—Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim

“I don’t think there’s anybody, or any two guys, who can guard him if he’s shooting the ball well.”
—Boeheim

“Carmelo Anthonys only come around once in your lifetime.”
—Boeheim

“He’s the best. A lot of guys can shoot, and a lot of guys can post up. But he can do both.”
—Former Syracuse teammate Gerry McNamara

“I’m not sure I’ve played against a guy who beats you in so many ways. You know what I love? I love his demeanor.”
—Texas coach Rick Barnes

“He reminds me of myself. He’s so in control. I was astonished by it.”
—Former NBA All-Star Mark Aguirre

“He’s a player. It’s God-given talent.”
—Former Nuggets coach Jeff Bzdelik

“Carmelo is more than a scorer. He’s going to be a very good rebounder and a great passer.”
—Nuggets GM Kiki Vandeweghe

“He is the prophet who is going to lead the Nuggets to the promised land.”
—Rocky Mountain News columnist Dean Bonham

“He’s going to be a phenomenal player in our league. And he does it with a smile on his face while respecting his teammates and the game. The more important the game, the more important the possession is, the better he is.”
—Pistons coach Larry Brown

"Guys that talented don't go to school anymore."
—Syracuse assistant Troy Weaver

"For Carmelo to be a leader of this team, he's got to be committed in practice and committed to focusing on the fundamentals. Right now he is a great talent but not a full-fledged professional. How many 20-year-olds are?”
—Nuggets head coach George Karl