NBA Legend Carmelo Anthony Gets Into Cannabis Industry, Leveling Playing Field For New Operators

Carmelo Anthony, former NBA star and future Hall of Famer, has launched a new cannabis brand through his company, Grand National Agency in partnership with CEO Jesce Horton and co-founder Brandon Drew Jordan Pierce. As MJBizDaily reported, Anthony says he wants to reshape the perception of celebrity cannabis brands while fostering community engagement and inclusivity in the cannabis industry.

Anthony, known for his versatility on the basketball court, is now channeling that energy into his cannabis business, with a mission to make the industry more accessible for marginalized communities. His company works to create opportunities for new cannabis operators and smaller brands, emphasizing social equity and cultural representation.

Partnerships To Promote Inclusion And Reduce Stigma

“We’re intentional about our growth, and we’re committed to ensuring that the cannabis industry reflects diversity and offers opportunities for people of color,” Anthony told MJBiz. With their first brand, StayMe7o Cannabis, they are partnering with Black-owned dispensaries in Oregon, aiming to uplift underrepresented groups in an industry dominated by white males and very few members of marginalized communities.

Anthony’s involvement in the cannabis sector stems from a personal interest in cannabis science and its potential health benefits. He has focused on education and aims to reduce the stigma surrounding cannabis by promoting informed discussions about its role in health and wellness. "Over the years, I found myself studying and researching the many potential benefits that cannabis can offer," he said. "There's still sometimes a stigma surrounding cannabis, but I've always been about educating myself and those around me. I believe as more people become informed, we can reshape that narrative and open up more discussions about health and well-being."

Cover image: Shutterstock