Archive · 2 Jun 2025
Carmelo Anthony on Larry Brown's Pre-Olympics Suspensions
Before the 2004 Olympics, Coach Larry Brown suspended LeBron James, Allen Iverson, and Amar'e Stoudemire.
They weren't late, but actually showed up a few minutes early to a meeting!
Carmelo Anthony explained that it was about the coach setting the rules for the team.
It was a way to make sure everyone knew who was in charge and to guide young players like LeBron.
Even after the suspension, the players, known as the "Young Guns," were cheered by fans.
Carmelo Anthony revealed Larry Brown suspended LeBron James, Allen Iverson, and Amar'e Stoudemire before the 2004 Olympics.
The suspension occurred for arriving early, not late, to a team meeting.
The incident happened before a scrimmage against Puerto Rico in Jacksonville.
Brown's decision was seen as a way to assert control over the team's star players.
Anthony noted it was about setting a tone, especially for younger players like LeBron James.
- Who
- Larry Brown, LeBron James, Allen Iverson, Amar'e Stoudemire, Carmelo Anthony
- What
- Larry Brown suspended LeBron James, Allen Iverson, and Amar'e Stoudemire.
- When
- Before the 2004 Olympics
- Where
- Jacksonville, Florida (scrimmage); Athens, Greece (Olympics)
- Why
- To assert control and set a tone for the team
Players' Perspective
Coach's Perspective
Suspension Rationale
Players' Perspective
Could have felt the punishment was petty, considering players arrived early and not late.
Coach's Perspective
Was a necessary move to establish leadership and maintain order among the star players.
- Source
- Carmelo Anthony
- Event
- 2004 Olympics
- Coach
- Larry Brown
- Suspended Players
- LeBron James, Allen Iverson, Amar'e Stoudemire
- Reason for suspension
- Team meeting
- Context
- Before scrimmage against Puerto Rico