Carmelo Anthony's Sister

Carmelo Anthony, 26, has left the Denver Nuggets to be with his family following the death of his sister, Michelle Anthony, and will not rejoin the team until after Christmas.

Denver Nuggets small forward Carmelo Anthony has joined hi family to mourn the loss of his sister Michelle this week. Michelle Anthony passed on Tuesday due to a pre-existing condition in Baltimore. She leaves behind four children.

Anthony, who has been embroiled in trade talks with the Denver Nuggets, New Jersey Nets amongst others, will not rejoin the team until after Christmas.

“Our entire organization supports Carmelo during this difficult time for him and his family,” says Nuggets executive vice president of basketball operations Masai Ujiri. “It is heartbreaking news, particularly during the holiday season.”

‘Melo has been sidelined with an injured elbow and has not practiced with the team.

Denver Nuggets head coach George Karl says the news “brings us down to earth” and reminds his organization that there are important things than basketball, trade talks and money.