Derek Fisher has said that Carmelo Anthony can "be part of something special" if he stays with the New York Knicks this off-season.
The All-Star forward is able to become a free agent from July 1, and has previously indicated that he would be willing to consider offers from other sides in the NBA.
Fisher, who was unveiled as the team's new head coach earlier this week, told reporters: "Only Carmelo can answer that question. That's a big part of not only who I am as a person and have been as a player, but who I'll be as a coach, is that ultimately the decision to be great, to be a part of something special, to want to be the best that you can be is ultimately your choice.
"We obviously firmly believe that here is that place for Carmelo. And we are going to do our best, not to convince him or change his mind from maybe a decision he's already made, but just help give him some confidence that with the personalities involved and our commitment to working hard to achieve a certain level of success, that this is the place where he can have what it is he wants.
"We played against each other for years. He is one of the great ones. In due time, I will continue to speak with all of our players, not just Carmelo. But there won't be any hesitation to let him know that I'm excited about the opportunity to possibly work with him. But it will be his choice. As the head coach, I have to be prepared to coach the players we ultimately have. I would love the opportunity to work closely with Carmelo. I look forward to it and we will see if it can happen."
Fisher joins the Knicks straight from his playing career, having been involved in the playoffs with the Oklahoma City Thunder until the end of May.
Sian Cowper
