From holding his first pair of Jordans to becoming the first Jordan signature athlete is truly inspirational. Former NBA star Carmelo Anthony, who achieved this feat, still holds it as one of his cherished memories. Not just Melo, but for any player, their first signature shoes hold a lot of emotions and memories. The same thing can be said about the Miami Heat legend, Dwyane Wade.

When asked, “Which shoe is your favorite and why?” during the Q&A segment in his thread, Wade expressed the significance of his signature shoes to him. Melo also jumped into the conversation, expressing his love for Michael Jordan‘s brand. He wrote, “I’m always gonna rock with the Jordan IXs. Played with them in high school and when I was young, I couldn’t afford any Jordans… Then I became the first Jordan signature athlete. All love for @jumpman23″.4

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Melo’s journey from a simple kid who was unable to afford Jordans to where he stands now will forever remain iconic. Moreover, Anthony’s connection with the Jordan Brand runs deeper than most people think.

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Carmelo Anthony’s first Air Jordans and signing with the Jordan Brand

It was Michael Jordan himself who chose Anthony to represent his brand. Back in 2004, the Denver Nuggets rookie inked one of the most monumental deals of his career. The lucrative deal saw him earn around $3.5 million for six years. During an interview with Architectural Digest, Melo shared how he couldn’t even afford his first Air Jordan until high school.

Recounting his humble beginnings, the New York Knicks legend shared, “My first pair of Jordans I didn’t get until my senior year in high school at Oak Hill. And that was only because they was a Jordan-sponsored school team.” The 10x All-Star added, “Going from that to being the first signature athlete at a Jordan Brand; after never being able to have a pair, it’s a full circle.”

Back in 2004, Anthony introduced his signature sneaker, the Jordan Melo 1.5. Following that, Chicago Bulls legend’s brand has expanded its roster, signing numerous players who continue to carry the legacy forward. There was also another roster of players for the brand named, “Team Jordan” who had their own unique line of shoes. But Melo is officially the first player to have his own signature shoes with Air Jordan.

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The NBA legend’s story with the brand and his first signature is truly special. What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments section below.