NBA icon and future Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony is the third global ambassador of the 2023 FIBA World Cup, a top Filipino basketball official told SPIN.ph’s Gerry Ramos.
As such, Anthony will be officially presented tomorrow, Feb. 24, in FIBA World Cup 2023 Global Ambassador Media Presentation within Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City, Philippines.
Anthony is set to join both Luis Scola and Pau Gasol as Global Ambassadors of the grand basketball tournament.
Speculations of Anthony being a FIBA ambassador have already swirled when the ex-NBA superstar was spotted arriving in Manila on Thursday. Images have circulated around social media as he was also seen taking a tour in the city’s coveted and historic spots in Luneta Park and Intramuros.
Anthony, 38, remains as one of the most notable free-agents remaining in the NBA market. He previously played last season for the Los Angeles Lakers, averaging 13.3 points and 4.2 boards.
A 10-time All-Star, member of the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team and one of the game’s most lethal offensive weapons, Anthony aided the United States basketball team in three gold medal finishes (2008, 2012, 2016) in the Olympics. He also helped the U.S. program in clinching a top-three run in both the 2004 Olympics and 2006 FIBA World Championship.
Alongside Japan and Indonesia, the Philippines will host the 2023 FIBA World Cup from Aug. 25 to Sep. 10.
