Carmelo Anthony Says J. Cole Might Just Be Top 10 All-TimeBy Staff Writer

Carmelo Anthony is no stranger to greatness, and now he’s weighing in on one of Hip Hop’s most debated topics: is J. Cole a top 10 rapper of all time?

On a recent episode of his podcast 7PM in Brooklyn, the retired NBA star made a strong case for the Dreamville boss. Melo praised Cole not just for his lyrical ability, but for the intentional way he’s shaped his career.

“We’ve never really seen someone bookend their career like this — with purpose,” he said, referencing the rumored final chapter of Cole’s music journey with The Fall Off. “That level of vision and execution? Top 10, for sure.”

He also applauded Cole’s maturity for stepping away from last year’s potential lyrical war with Kendrick Lamar, saying the move showed wisdom and peace over ego.

Looking ahead, Melo believes Cole’s next act may lie in the sports world, not as an athlete, but as a storyteller: “He’s definitely going to be around sports — documentaries, creative work, telling stories his way.”

J. Cole’s impact isn’t just felt by Melo. Hip Hop legends have echoed similar praise. Big Daddy Kane has called him this generation’s strongest lyricist, while Benny The Butcher described Cole’s presence as unmatched, especially after witnessing his energy during the Revenge of the Dreamers sessions.

With The Fall Off potentially marking the end of an era, the real question is: has Cole done enough to etch his name among the greatest to ever touch the mic?