The great "Melo" debate of 2021 is finally over.

After the Trail Blazers' 123-111 win over the Hornets on Monday night, Portland forward Carmelo Anthony ended the about his status as the true "Melo" of the NBA, telling reporters that it's perfectly fine for anyone to use the nickname when referring toCharlotte rookie LaMelo Ball. Anthony Kevin Gausman Jersey and Ball showed their respect for each other with a jersey exchange on the floor after the game.

MORE:

Melo MeloRespect.

Anthonyadded that Ball is free to use his signature 3-point celebration. After making a shot Brad Brach Jersey from beyond the arc, Anthony typically taps the side of his head three timeswith three fingers. Balldoes a similar celebration, though Anthony noted thathe only does one tap.

"I thinkLaMelois somebody who is gonna be in this game for a long time," Anthony said."So the name 'Melo,' you guys might as well continue Cal Ripken Jersey getting used to that or stay with it. I don't get into that, though. For me, it's a respect thing. It's an honor for him to have that name, for him to embrace it, for him to do the celebration. It's an honor. It's a ble sing. Keegan Akin Jersey It's a respect thing for me. I embrace him."

Carmelo Anthony clearing the air on the Melo controversy with LaMelo Ball:"I vouched for it, he can do it""It's an honor for him to have that name for him to embrace it. It's a ble sing, it's a respect thing for me"pic.twitter.com/CgL1PK6UXO

Ball may become the main "Melo" in the near future, but Anthony isn't done just yet. The future Hall of Famer scored a team-high 29 points off the bench against the Hornets, Rio Ruiz Jersey shooting 10 of 19 from the field and 6 of 10 from 3-point range. Ball, meanwhile, had a game-high 30 points to go with eight a sists, six rebounds and four steals.

LaMelo now first among rookies in scoring, rebounding, a sists, steals, PER, BPM (top 40 in NBA), 3rd in 3PTM on Ubaldo Jimenez Jersey 36.7%. Turns 20 this summer.

No wonder there is so much "Melo" admiration going around.