News Summary

Basketball legend Carmelo Anthony is set to launch his cannabis brand STAYME7O in New York in April 2025. The brand aims to promote social equity and support minority-owned businesses, reflecting Anthony’s deep connection to the city where he had a notable NBA career. Alongside creative agency Grand National, the launch is poised to create opportunities within the evolving cannabis industry, emphasizing quality products and positive community impact.

New York Welcomes Carmelo Anthony’s Cannabis Ventures!

In an exciting twist, New York is about to embark on a new journey into the world of cannabis with the launch of basketball legend Carmelo Anthony’s cannabis brand, STAYME7O, alongside a creative agency known as Grand National. Scheduled to kick off in April 2025, this launch is being eagerly anticipated by fans of Anthony and cannabis enthusiasts alike.

What’s in a Name?

The brand’s name, STAYME7O, is a clever play on Anthony’s nickname “Melo” and his iconic jersey number, 7. This catchy name is not just a brand but a reflection of Anthony’s journey and values connected to his time in the NBA, particularly during his memorable seven-year stint with the New York Knicks.

More Than Just a Brand

The essence of STAYME7O extends beyond cannabis products; it aims to create a high-quality experience for consumers. The endeavor is built in partnership with Jesce Horton, a well-respected name in cannabis entrepreneurship, and Brandon Drew Jordan Pierce, who is also known as “Beedy” and brings a creative flair to the table. Together, they aim to curate products that not only satisfy but also promote social equity across communities.

A “Full Circle” Moment for Anthony

Launching STAYME7O in New York holds personal significance for Anthony. He describes it as a “full circle” moment, emphasizing his connection to the vibrant city where he played a substantial part of his basketball career. This deep-rooted connection ignites an element of pride as he returns to contribute positively to the local community.

Grand National: Bridging the Gap

Alongside the launch of STAYME7O, Anthony co-founded Grand National. This innovative agency is intended to support cannabis brands and operators to thrive in a quickly evolving industry. Think of Grand National as the bridge that connects creativity with opportunity, helping cannabis businesses expand and flourish while ensuring top-notch innovation and execution.

Support for Minority-Owned Businesses

One of the standout missions of STAYME7O is to be a champion for minority-owned businesses and dispensaries. The brand is all about promoting social justice and economic empowerment in a sector that has historically marginalized certain communities. It’s about opening doors for those who have been adversely affected by past cannabis laws.

What to Expect?

After making its mark in Oregon with a successful launch last year, STAYME7O will first hit select retail locations throughout New York. The collection will be available initially at two Oregon dispensaries owned by Indigenous and Black entrepreneurs: Natural Wonders and Green Muse. This is an intentional choice that aligns with the brand’s commitment to championing historical underrepresentation in the cannabis industry.

Going Beyond Products

Proceeds from STAYME7O will be distributed towards meaningful initiatives such as NuProject, which supports diverse entrepreneurs navigating the cannabis landscape, and the Last Prisoner Project, which advocates for justice reforms in cannabis-related criminal proceedings. The philosophy behind the brand resonates strongly with Anthony’s belief in creating opportunities for communities that have been disproportionately impacted by previous cannabis laws.

Carmelo’s Personal Journey

On a personal note, Anthony’s interest in cannabis stems from his own experiences relating to recovery and wellness. He works closely with cultivation teams to ensure the quality and integrity of the products, showing his commitment to the craft. Anthony also recognizes the growing acceptance of cannabis within professional sports and actively advocates for its potential benefits for recovery and mental health.

A Bright Future Ahead

With STAYME7O and Grand National, Anthony is not just launching a brand but creating a movement centered on empowerment and positive change. The focus on supporting underrepresented communities as well as promoting innovation in the cannabis space speaks to a future that holds much promise. As the anticipated launch date approaches, excitement is building around what these ventures will bring to New York and beyond.

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Author: HERE New York

Tagged New York Business, NYC Economy, NYC Entrepreneurs

Carmelo Anthony Launches Cannabis Brand STAYME7O in New York