LeBron James meets with Carmelo Anthony before the game against the Knicks
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James returned to one of his favorite arenas in the world on Sunday as they visited the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden for a game.
James had legendary moments in the holy place. There really is something different, almost mystical, about competing in Madison Square Garden that gets all the players pumped up.
The game against the Knicks was especially special for 41-year-old Jamesas he reunited with his good friend, the NBA legend Carmelo Anthony. They bonded before tip-off, sharing a few laughs.
LeBron James links up with Carmelo Anthony and Tracy McGrady ahead of Lakers-Knicks 🤝
(via @NBAonNBC)pic.tvitter.com/smszcJbpO2
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 2, 2026
Anthony, who played for the Knicks from 2011-2017, covered the highly anticipated contest for NBC.
James and Anthony have remained close since entering the NBA together in 2003 as the top prospects of their respective draft classes.
It’s wild that James is still playing, while Anthony is already doing television. Another testament to the unparalleled longevity of the four-time MVP.
Fans were thrilled to see James and Anthony together again.
“They’ve been friends since day one,” he said @BasketISOK.
“I like to see LeBron happy,” he added @Mr9iceGuiiiiii.
“Of course, Melo would be there. My guy. I miss you on the court, bro,” wrote @BlessedOrri.
“This is emotional,” @commented @OgodoSandra.
“I’d like to see the two of them on the same team,” published @amktparticipant.
James and Anthony played together on the Lakers for one season, fulfilling a longtime desire.
James was announced as one of the reserves in next month’s All-Star Game in Los Angeles, marking his 22nd in the midseason affair. He will come off the bench for the first time.
2026-02-02 02:04:00
