Watch: Carmelo Anthony rocks Knicks themed bomber jacket and gets rousing ovation from MSG as son Kiyan Anthony looks on
Carmelo Anthony was at Madison Square Garden on Friday for the New York Knicks’ home opener against their rivals, the Indiana Pacers. Anthony was one of several celebrities who supported the Knicks in their first game at MSG to start the 2024-25 NBA season. Unlike the other A-listers, though, “Melo” was put in the spotlight on a few occasions.
During a lull in the action in the first quarter, the Brooklyn native’s presence was acknowledged by the crowd. The former 10x All-Star, who wore a bomber jacket with the Knicks logo patches all over it, got a warm welcome from the fans. Kiyan Anthony, the basketball legend’s son, looked on soaking in the moment.
Carmelo Anthony, years after retiring from the NBA, remains a fan favorite among the Knicks faithful. He often goes to MSG in many of the team’s biggest games. Anthony was at courtside when the Knicks lost 130-109 in Game 7 against the Pacers in last season’s playoffs.
The New York Knicks put on a second-quarter show in front of Carmelo Anthony
After leading 25-24 in the first quarter, the New York Knicks gave Carmelo Anthony and other fans a show in the next period. Behind Josh Hart, Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby, the home team drubbed the visitors 36-21. Hart and Mikal Bridges set the tone by stringing together points early.
New York’s defense also bared its teeth two nights after being embarrassed by the Boston Celtics on the road. The Knicks’ crisp defensive rotations, physicality and energy suffocated the Pacers.
Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana’s franchise cornerstone, was shut down in the first half. Haliburton went 0-for-8 behind the concerted efforts of Bridges, Hart and Brunson. The Knicks earned a standing ovation from Carmelo Anthony and other fans when the first half ended.
The last time the Pacers were in MSG, they sent the Knicks to vacation in a winner-take-all Game 7. On Friday, the home fans had more reason to celebrate after their team turned the tables on their rivals.