NBA Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony has teamed up with D.C. United in a new soccer stadium development underway in Baltimore, his hometown where he was a high school basketball star. The initiative aims to strengthen the D.C. United Baltimore Stadium project and expand the club’s regional presence.
On Thursday, D.C. United CEO and co-owner Jason Levien joined Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott at a press event to announce Anthony’s involvement. The proposed venue, located in Carroll Park on Baltimore’s southwest side, will host D.C. United’s MLS Next Pro team, a USL Super League women’s squad, and an additional D.C. United youth academy. Carroll Park was chosen over the Baltimore Peninsula location after thorough consideration.
Plans and Strategic Importance of the New Venue
Jason Levien highlighted the historical significance of soccer in Baltimore and the importance of expanding the club’s footprint there.
“There is a long history of soccer in Baltimore,”
Levien said in a phone interview.
“Growing our footprint into the Baltimore market is very meaningful for us.”
The D.C. United ownership group, led by Levien and Stephen Kaplan since 2018, has discussed Anthony’s role in the Baltimore effort for several years.
D.C. United is unique among MLS teams for controlling exclusive rights in two major markets, Washington and Baltimore, which allows the club to develop a broader fanbase and greater sponsorship opportunities. Mayor Brandon Scott supports transferring the Carroll Park land to D.C. United and endorses legislation introduced in the Maryland Senate aimed at securing funding for the project. While the financial package remains unsettled, Levien expressed confidence the stadium will be realized through a public-private partnership with city backing.
Stadium Design, Cost, and Timeline
A preliminary analysis estimates a 12,000-seat stadium and training facility to cost $238 million. Levien also mentioned that housing development will be integrated into the project’s plans. If the necessary funding is approved, construction could begin in 2027, creating a modern venue to serve multiple club teams and community needs.
The stadium will be located approximately two miles from M&T Bank Stadium, home to the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens. Notably, D.C. United recently shifted its March home match against Inter Miami to M&T Bank Stadium, capitalizing on the presence of MLS Cup champions and superstar Lionel Messi. This NFL venue holds over three times the capacity of D.C. United’s usual Audi Field and is on track for a sellout, marking the first MLS game hosted there.
Carmelo Anthony’s Background and Club Valuation
Carmelo Anthony, who retired in 2022 after an illustrious 19-year NBA career that included 10 All-Star appearances, three Olympic gold medals, and a scoring title, brings significant star power and local influence to the project. Throughout his professional career, Anthony earned an estimated $425 million in salaries and endorsements, equivalent to $570 million adjusted for inflation, ranking him among the highest-paid athletes historically.
On the business side, D.C. United recently ranked 12th in Sportico’s MLS team valuations at $750 million, reflecting a 4% increase from 2025 and a remarkable 150% rise since Levien’s group acquired majority ownership. This project is expected to further elevate the club’s value by tapping into the Baltimore market and expanding its facilities.
Implications for Baltimore and Regional Soccer Growth
Anthony’s involvement and the planned stadium represent a significant step in solidifying soccer’s presence in Baltimore while enhancing D.C. United’s regional strategy. The project promises not only to deliver a state-of-the-art sports venue but also to stimulate local development, including new housing. With strong municipal support and ongoing negotiations to secure funding, stakeholders remain cautiously optimistic about the stadium’s future as a hub for professional and youth soccer in Baltimore.
