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Carmelo Anthony’s Touching Hall Of Fame Tribute To His Dad: 'Your Spirit Walks With Me'

Originally posted on Fadeaway World | By Vishwesha Kumar | Last updated Sep 7, 2025 10:11 AM ET

Carmelo Anthony’s enshrinement into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame was always destined to be a night filled with emotion. Over two decades in the spotlight, Anthony has been defined by his resilience, his scoring artistry, and his cultural influence beyond the hardwood. Yet when the moment finally arrived, it was not the trophies or accolades that brought him to tears, it was his father.

"To my father, here's where the tears come. We good, we good, we good. To my father, Carmelo Iriarte. You left this world too soon, but you never left me. Your name is my name. Your spirit walks with me in every step I take."

"You were a poet, an activist, a fighter. You taught me without even knowing that words matter, that vision matters. Even in your absence, you gave me strength. In the silence, you gave me purpose. And though I didn't get to grow with you, I grew because of you."

"You gave me the first example of what it means to carry fire and still speak with grace. Your blood runs in mine. Your dream lives through me. This Hall of Fame jacket that I receive, I'm not wearing it tonight, I wear it for the both of us."

"You left this world too soon but you never left me."

- Carmelo Anthony gives a shoutout to his father

Class of 2025 Enshrinement Ceremony on NBA TV pic.twitter.com/IBatQMDMc3
— NBA (@NBA) September 7, 2025

Anthony’s father, a poet, activist, and fighter, passed away when Melo was just two years old. He never had the chance to grow up alongside him, but his presence loomed large over the superstar’s life. In his heartfelt speech, Anthony described how his father’s legacy continued to guide him.

Those words reflected the deep bond Anthony has always maintained with the man he barely knew, a connection rooted not in shared experiences but in spirit and identity. Melo explained that even without his father’s physical presence, he always found strength in what his father represented.

Anthony’s tribute struck at the very heart of why his career has resonated with so many. His journey from the streets of Baltimore to college stardom at Syracuse, to Olympic glory, to the NBA Hall of Fame, has been one of perseverance and identity.

His father’s influence, as a man who valued words, ideas, and principles, shaped Anthony’s voice both on and off the court.

It was the most personal moment of the night, a reminder that the Hall of Fame is not only about career numbers and championships, but about the stories and sacrifices that shape the people behind the greatness. For Anthony, it was never just about basketball; it was about honoring the man whose dreams he continues to carry.

This article first appeared on Fadeaway World and was syndicated with permission.

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