The New York Knicks confirmed the Carmelo Anthony trade on Monday, and the star forward wasted no time bidding farewell to New York.
In a post on his website, Anthony, a Brooklyn native, said goodbye to the city and fans in an emotional message.
“New York equipped me to make it in any other place in the world,” Anthony wrote. “It taught me how to Be Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable. Saying Goodbye is the hardest thing to do. I never thought I would, especially to you. No one will ever take your place. It’s hard to find someone like you, so know you will always be missed. You helped me laugh. You dried my tears. Because of you, I have no fears. You came into my life and I was blessed. It’s time to raise my hand and say goodbye. It’s not the end, because like I’ve always said, NYC ’til the end.
“I’ve known you for years now, and I must say they’ve been the best years I’ve ever had. You helped me become the person I am today. I just want you to know YOU will always be in my heart. No matter what happens, I will always LOVE YOU. Although this goodbye is just temporary, this is the hardest goodbye for me to say. I wipe the tears off my cheek and smile at the same time because I know that we will meet again someday. ‘I’ve had my shining moments, upon this life darkened stage.’ And in my BOOK of WONDERMENTS, you will never be just another page. Your bright lights will travel with me far past when all the other lights go out.”
Anthony also thanked Knicks fans and members of the organization for their support, and gave a nod to owner James Dolan for the opportunity to play in New York.
Anthony’s years in New York will be viewed with disappointment, though some others had a rather major impact on his fortunes, but his affection for his hometown certainly has not faded as he moves to Oklahoma City.
