Carmelo Anthony is eagerly anticipating Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden. He will watch Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks receive their NBA title rings. It marks the first time in 53 years a banner will be raised at the Garden. Anthony, now a part of NBC Sports’ NBA crew, often finds himself preparing as if he were still on the court, wearing his No. 7 jersey again for the Knicks.
“A game like tomorrow – opening night, ring night, banner night. I’m preparing myself to get ready for the game like I’m about to play,” he shared with OutKick. This is while discussing his partnership with DraftKings ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season. He reminded himself, “You ain’t getting back out there. You’re good on this side.” Still feeling connected to the game brings him immense joy.
Anthony attended the New York Knicks’ championship parade and ceremony on June 18, 2026, at New York City Hall. “I can imagine the adrenaline these guys will feel,” he said. Winning a championship is a dream for every player. Last summer, millions rooted for the Knicks to end their championship drought.
“Defending it is a job,” Anthony noted. “The banner goes up, and they’re marked. Every team will circle the Knicks on the schedule.” This is the cost of being champs.
The past season was unforgettable for Anthony. Initially, he felt like a player again until he embraced being a fan. “I was putting myself into plays, thinking, ‘What would I do here?’ Then, I realized, ‘Be a fan,’” he recalled. He enjoyed the Knicks’ moments, like Jalen Brunson’s pivotal play, calling such instances special.
This new season is a fresh opportunity for the Knicks and other NBA teams. Although the Knicks wear the crown, rivals like the 76ers, featuring LeBron James and Jaylen Brown, will challenge them. “With the crown, you guard it fiercely,” Anthony said. The season demands a championship mindset, where each player improves in the offseason.
Anthony is enthusiastic about his collaboration with DraftKings. “We’ve got a great campaign with Kevin Hart and Nick Jonas,” he said. With DraftKings accessible in all 50 states, it enhances engagement with sports. Anthony appreciates being part of the campaign, allowing fans to enjoy the game broadly.
Scott Thompson, a sports writer for Fox News Digital, contributed to this story.
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