Phil Jackson calls Carmelo Anthony the Knicks' 'cornerstone'

After all the dust settled, Carmelo Anthony's vagabond shoes ended up longing to stay. 

Anthony and the New York Knicks announced on Sunday afternoon that they have come to an agreement on a new contract that will keep the seven-time All-Star in the Big Apple for the foreseeable future. 

The allure of new Knicks president Phil Jackson weighed heavily in Anthony's decision, and he referenced the legendary coach and architect in a statement on the team website. 

“I am a New York Knick at heart,” Anthony said. “I am looking forward to continue my career in Orange & Blue and to work with Phil Jackson, a champion who builds championship teams. Madison Square Garden is the Mecca of basketball and I am surrounded by the greatest fans in the world.”

Jackson himself had kind words for Anthony, cementing his spot as the center of the franchise. 

"After three months of questions around Carmelo Anthony's return to the New York Knicks, we are now happy to know that we have the cornerstone of what we envision as a 'team of excellence.'" Jackson said. "Steve Mills and I have assured Carmelo through our conversations, that we have the vision and the determination to build this team and he has clearly bought into our message."