Anthony: 'Team-mates reminded me of record'

The New York Knicks star had a game-high 31 points in USA's hard-fought 98-88 win over Australia in Group A. With his haul, Anthony moved past LeBron James for most points at the Games for the all-conquering USA men's team.

United States star Carmelo Anthony broke LeBron James' record for scoring most points in the Games.

Carmelo Anthony knew he was closing in on LeBron James' Olympics scoring record for the United States before breaking it on Wednesday.

The New York Knicks star had a game-high 31 points in USA's hard-fought 98-88 win over Australia in Group A. With his haul, Anthony moved past James for most points at the Games for the all-conquering USA men's team.

The 32-year-old was aware of the record, saying: "I was conscious of it, my team-mates were making sure I was aware of the situation.

"Tonight was one of those nights where I wanted the game to come to me, take the open shots, and just play basketball. At the end of the day, I was just playing basketball. My team-mates found me, and it was all in the flow of the basketball game."

Competing at his fourth consecutive Olympics, Anthony is a two-time gold medallist after successes in 2008 and 2012.

USA coach Mike Krzyzewski hailed Anthony, who made nine three-pointers against Australia, for his contribution.

"I want to congratulate him, we've had great, great players and great teams, play for the United States," he said.

"Today Carmelo set the record for most points scored by a US player, career-wise.

"His commitment to USA basketball, international basketball, he's one of the best players in the world, but over the past decade, he's proven to be one of the best international players in the world, so congratulations to him."