Carmelo Anthony, the renowned NBA star, faced a unique upbringing shaped by the absence of his activist father, Carmelo Iriarte. In an episode of “Finding Your Roots,” Carmelo delved into his family history, uncovering the lineage of his Puerto Rican descent father.

Mary Anthony, Carmelo’s mother, born in Bishopville, South Carolina, played a pivotal role in his life. A passionate high school basketball player herself, Mary passed down her love for the sport to her son, despite societal stereotypes about girls in sports during that era.

Tragically, Carmelo’s father passed away when he was just two years old, leaving a void in his life. To compensate for the absence of a father figure, Carmelo formed close relationships with other family members, particularly his older brothers and cousins. However, their involvement in violence and drugs within their neighborhood added complexity to Carmelo’s formative years.

In a heartfelt Father’s Day tribute in 2015, Carmelo expressed the impact of his father’s death on their relationship. Despite the challenges, Mary Anthony stood steadfast as a single mother, striving to see her children succeed. Carmelo’s post honoring his father received support from fans, acknowledging the athlete’s resilience.

After losing her husband, Mary took on the responsibility of raising four children, working multiple jobs to provide Carmelo with the best educational opportunities. Unlike some parents who become their child’s managers upon recognizing talent, Mary remained focused on being her son’s mother, emphasizing the importance of education.

Mary Anthony’s dedication to her son’s future, coupled with her sacrifices and unwavering support, played a crucial role in Carmelo Anthony’s journey from a challenging childhood to becoming an NBA legend.