Bogdan Bogdanovic's Passion Sparked Carmelo Anthony's Esteem

The Paris Olympics seemingly possessed Bogdan Bogdanovic with a mix of patriotism and basketball blood lust. The Serbian guard scored 20 points, barking comments toward the Team USA alums on the sideline and getting into it with the refs during the heated Olympic semifinal match.

At one point, Bogdanovic provoked Team USA legend Carmelo Anthony. Following a shot from deep, Bogdanovic performed Anthony's signature three-point celebration to the head. Serbia's confidence shot through the roof, as it appeared Team USA wouldn't qualify for silver or gold. However, Team USA eventually went on a game-changing 24-8 run to knock Serbia off its high horse.

Nonetheless, as a persistent scorer, Anthony's state of mind saw Bogdanovic mimicking the New York Knicks legend's move as a tribute. Melo appreciated the 20-point performance from the Atlanta Hawks guard as Team USA's leader in a single game, scoring 37 points against Nigeria in 2012.

Although Serbia lost, it can take great pride in pushing Team USA to turn back the clock on superstars like Stephen Curry and LeBron James. Draft Kings figured Team USA was a 15.5 favorite over Serbia. Nikola Jokic didn't have the best game, and a team equipped with NBA players forced Team USA to its most legendary performance in recent memory.

Related: Stephen Curry Nearly Breaks Carmelo Anthony Record in Team USA Win

For the game to be close, James had to record a triple-double, and Curry had to score 17 points in the first quarter. Serbia's loss stings, but it's also a reminder that Team USA can't simply depend on talent to blowout opposing Olympic teams.

The Knicks legend understood Bogdanovic's performance's gravity, especially for Team USA's future if it lost, and the passion flowing from the Serbian guard. Anthony used Instagram to showcase his respect for Bogdanovic.

See the image here .