Carmelo Anthony officially signed his one-year $2.4 million deal with the Houston Rockets on Monday, after securing a buyout with the Atlanta Hawks last week. I'm sure Melo has a "thank you" letter in the works for the fans in Atlanta, but first he took some time to say farewell to Oklahoma City.
In a letter published by The Oklahoman on Monday entitled “Thank you, OKC,” the 34-year old veteran forward called attention to his former teammates and coaches as well as the "amazing" city and their "incredible" fans.
Thank You, OKC
I know it was only one season, but from the time I arrived in OKC, I was greeted with so much love from The Team, The Organization, and of course the INCREDIBLE fans of this amazing city. Throughout the entire season, game after game, you cheered me on and rooted for us as a team. That is something I will always cherish and never forget. That genuine support kept me going all season long.
IN LIFE, I've learned that things don't always turn out how you want. I wanted nothing more than to make it work here & help bring this city a championship. I'm sorry it didn't work out while I was here.
Thank you to Russ, PG, Sam Presti, Coach Billy Donovan, my trainers and the entire staff who work so hard and diligently at Chesapeake Energy Arena and the practice facility. I appreciate you all very much. Last but not least, Thank You to (Thunder part-owner and chairman) Mr. (Clay) Bennett for believing in me.
This chapter of my career may be coming to an end but my story is far from over.
Love Always.
STAYME7o
Anthony will now team up with All-Stars Chris Paul and James Harden in Houston, where he'll also be reunited with head coach Mike D'Antoni, who quit his job with the Knicks in 2012 after Melo reportedly gave the team an ultimatum. However, D'Antoni told USA Today Sports that the situation in Houston is a "better fit" and "totally different" than their time in New York.
The Rockets will open up the 2018-19 season at home against the New Orleans Pelicans on October 17, in a game that will air on ESPN.