National Basketball Association (NBA) star and future basketball hall of famer Carmelo Anthony enjoyed Filipino hospitality up until the wee hours of the morning at the home of 1-Pacman Party-list Rep. Mikee Romero last Saturday, Feb. 25.
Romero shared photos of Anthony's visit on Facebook as well as the reason why the latter went to his abode.
"My son Santi and NBA Legend (10x All Star) Carmelo Anthony are good friends since 2021. They met in New York and shared the same trainers, practiced in same gym and saw each other frequently in 2021. Melo promised to visit Santi in our house once he is in Manila and he fulfilled that promise last night," Romero wrote in a post over the weekend.
"After the FIBA Gilas-Lebanon game, Melo went straight to our house and stayed on until 3:30am (Saturday). Talking with our family for 7 hours," he added.
The former House deputy speaker gave high praise to the American athlete over the latter's gesture to his son Santi.
"All I can say is, as one of the best players in the world, Melo is a greater person inside and outside. Truly a world class and fantastic guy," Romero said.
One of the most prolific scorers of his generation, Anthony is a 10-time NBA All-Star and owner of three Olympic gold medals. He was drafted third overall in the 2003 draft, the same class as LeBron James.
Anthony was in town in his capacity as FIBA World Cup global ambassador.
Romero, a known sportsman, was instrumental in the Filipino naturalization of Barangay Ginebra import Justin Brownlee. Brownlee finally suited up in a Gilas Pilipinas uniform in the Lebanon game, which the Filipino cagers won.