?Giving Out Participation Trophies,? the New York Knicks? Move to Honor Recently Retired Carmelo Anthony Divides the NBA Fandom

After a 19-year-long illustrious stint in the NBA, All-Star Forward Carmelo Anthony hung his shoes on Monday. Basketball circles are now revisiting the 38-year-old’s legacy and his iconic on-court exploits. NBA royalty, including contemporary superstars, took a moment to honor the 10x-NBA All-Star. Now, Carmelo Anthony’s former franchise, the New York Knicks, is reportedly doing its due diligence to honor the veteran forward.

Carmelo Anthony spent six years with the New York Knicks. Melo emerged as the Knicks’ centerpiece during his stint with the team. With the news of his retirement, word got spread that New York is going to celebrate his legacy with an honorary gesture. NBA fans, however, have different opinions regarding the Knicks’ move.

The New York Knicks to celebrate Carmelo Anthony’s legacy

The Denver Nuggets had drafted Carmelo Anthony in 2003 and he played in Denver until 2011. Melo consistently delivered ace performances and averaged great numbers while donning the Knicks’ colors from 2011 to 2017. As reports suggest, it is most likely that the Knicks will immortalize the 38-year-old veteran’s legacy at Madison Square Garden.

The New York-based franchise is planning to retire Carmelo Anthony’s number 7 jersey. According to SNY’s New York Knicks reporter Ian Begley, there is firm support from some in the franchise to retire Melo’s jersey. NBA Central has tweeted this latest update. “There has been strong support among some in Madison Square Garden to retire Carmelo Anthony’s number, per @IanBegley,” NBA Central captioned the tweet.

Numerous fans have rushed to Twitter to catch a glimpse of the latest Melo Anthony update. While certain fans support the Knicks’ plan to retire Melo’s jersey, others believe the gesture to be seemingly empty.

Fans divided over Carmelo Anthony update

Though Carmelo Anthony displayed his prowess consistently with the Knicks, he has not had a successful playoff run with the side. He has not once reached the Eastern Conference Finals. Moreover, Melo made more playoff appearances during his lengthier stint in Denver.

Many were left scratching their heads about whether Denver or New York should retire Melo’s jersey. “They be giving out participation trophies in the league too?!,”?said a fan.

Some fans respect Melo’s contributions, but they don’t encourage the idea of retiring his jersey.

This fan seems to be quite unhappy about the jersey retirement update.

A fan recalls Melo’s Denver days.

READ MORE: Days After His Retirement, a Bizarre Story Behind Carmelo Anthony?s Beef With a Celtics Legend Emerges: ?Tastes Like Honey Nut Cheerios?

This fan did not forget to have fun at New York’s cost.

Call for the Nuggets to honor the 10x-NBA All-Star.

https://twitter.com/supszns/status/1661496635069976576

Some fans love the idea.

There are fans who have New York’s back.

WATCH THIS STORY: After Latest Setback, A Timeline Of Injuries Faced By Pelicans Star Zion Williamson