In Lebron James form, Carmelo Anthony had his own statement although this one was brief. Via his website and in three paragraphs, Anthony explained why he was going back to the New York Knicks.

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"This organization has supported me," said Anthony, "And in return I want to stay and build here with this city and my team."

Anthony thanked the teams that took interest in him, which included Dallas, Chicago, Los Angeles and Houston. He got to handle free agency the way he wanted - have each organization prepare a pitch and try to impress him.

"At this pivotal juncture in my career, I owed it to myself and my family to explore all of the options available to me. Through it all, my heart never wavered."

New York fans are who they are - which includes at times being brutal towards Anthony, who has long been the biggest superstars on this Knicks team since the trade with Denver in 2011.

"In the end, I am a New York Knick at heart. I am looking forward to continue my career in Orange & Blue and to work with Phil Jackson, a champion who builds championship teams. Madison Square Garden is the mecca of basketball and I am surrounded by the greatest fans in the world."

Anthony will reportedly take less than the five-year, $129 million max, something closer to $122 million.

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