“We’ve been working together – 10, 12 years. I realized she came from a corporate background and had expertise beyond that role.” Recently, Carmelo Anthony proudly shared how his and Asani Swann’s partnership came to fruition. Last year they launched Oath of Fidelity, from Melo’s brand VII(N) The Seventh Estate. However, this year the Knicks legend has been nominated to receive the esteemed honor. And it was his business partner who broke the news first.

“My business partner, Asani, was blowing my phone up. I’m like, she don’t call. She don’t call. If she called twice, it’s important. You called three, four times, it’s an emergency. Somebody is dying. So she called back to back to back. She was like, yellow and started screaming in the phone. And I’m like, what’s going on? She was like, you Hall of Fame.” On his podcast, Carmelo Anthony describes the news of receiving the call and later explains his emotions, which were on-brand.

“And I was like, it ain’t there yet. I was my typical self. Like, nah, it ain’t, it’s just a nomination. Because I didn’t have a chance to process it. You know what I mean? When I started, when I got home, I’m like talking to people and family.” There was another reason, which he described previously on the podcast for not being able to celebrate the news.

Carmelo Anthony explained he was sick, had a stomach bug, and was “sweating bullets,” via 7PM in Brooklyn It was his assistant who first passed the information. However, because of being unwell, he couldn’t really appreciate the news.

Carmelo Anthony finally shared his emotions about the news

Melo is the 1st time nominee for the HOF, alongside fellow first-timers, Dwight Howard and 4x WNBA champion, Sue Bird. Other notable personalities include Maya Moore, Sylvia Fowles, and Chamique Holdsclaw. NBA coach Billy Donovan and former players Marc Gasol and Amar’e Stoudemire are also up for nomination. Nominated amongst them, Knicks legend made a heartfelt announcement.

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Blessed to be named among such incredible players. My love for basketball is forever. I will always be grateful for this game, and the communities that stood by me as I chased my dreams.” Carmelo Anthony wrote on X, “To my family, friends, fans, teammates, and coaches — THANK YOU. #STAYME7O.”

For now, there is no confirmation if Carmelo Anthony will be shortlisted for the ceremony. However, considering his legacy, it will be hard not to acknowledge his 19-year NBA career. Will Melo be on the podium or is it too soon?