Carmelo Anthony drew attention online on Wednesday after referring to actor and Knicks fan Timothée Chalamet as his “favorite white boy” and saying that he gave him an “award” for the title of his favorite white person.

Speaking at a Variety and Google TV event during Cannes Lions, the former Knicks star discussed Chalamet’s support for the team and the role celebrity fans have played in the Knicks’ public image.

“I actually gave him an award. My ‘favorite white boy’ award,” Anthony said, referring to Chalamet’s appearance on his 7PM in Brooklyn podcast. “He was happy about that. He appreciated because I shined some light on what he really wanted in that moment.”

The comments sparked discussion on X, with one user claiming people would “cry about racism” if the roles were switched.

However, another user shared: “Timothée is really well liked by everyone who meets him… I have yet to see anyone who has been close to him say something negative.”

Anthony said Chalamet has become one of the most visible celebrity supporters of the Knicks. “We have the OGs. The Spike Lees, the Ben Stillers of the world. Then we have this new generation, like Timothée Chalamet. He’s running around representing the Knicks to the fullest,” Anthony said. He also reflected on the Knicks’ championship victory and the impact it has had on New York. “The Knicks finally winning the championship has reignited the city of New York, from sports to businesses to kids. All industries feel like they have a newfound energy,” Anthony said.

He pointed out how sport can still bring people together in a way few other things can. “Sports unifies a lot of things and people. It brings everything together, and it may be one of the only things out there that unifies everybody like that,” he said. Anthony has also been expanding his work beyond basketball in recent years. Since retiring, he has built a business portfolio that includes podcasting, media production, wine, cigars and film through Creative 7 Productions.

“My story’s been written about me for the past 20 years, and now I have the opportunity to take control of that narrative,” he said.