“We’ve been trying to figure this out for a long time, but through the time it didn’t work… But we are here now, so we going to make the best out of it,” Carmelo said

Carmelo Anthony is gearing up for his next phase, and this time, he’ll have a trusted companion by his side.

The 37-year-old, who showcased impressive performances during his two seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers, sealed a deal with the Los Angeles Lakers in August, officially reuniting him with LeBron James.

Anthony and James, who both emerged as standout high school players, entered the NBA in 2003. James was selected first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers, while Anthony followed as the third pick to the Denver Nuggets.

Despite their long-standing friendship, the duo had yet to play together on the same NBA team until now. Anthony shares with PEOPLE his excitement about finally making it happen and seizing the opportunity while they still can.

“It’s been a long time coming,” Anthony reveals. “We’ve been trying to make this work for quite some time, but various circumstances prevented it. However, we’re finally here, and we’re determined to make the most of it.”

After experiencing numerous highs over the past 18 seasons — including Olympic gold medals and multiple All-Star selections — Anthony has yet to secure an NBA championship, which could be considered the final accolade missing from his illustrious career.

Anthony came tantalizingly close to reaching the Finals in 2009 when the Nuggets advanced to the Western Conference Finals, only to have their hopes dashed by Kobe Bryant and the Lakers, who went on to claim the championship that year.

Now, more than a decade later, Anthony finds himself donning the Lakers’ iconic purple and gold jersey, presenting perhaps his best opportunity yet to clinch an NBA title. With James and the Lakers having secured the 2020 NBA championship just two seasons ago and boasting a formidable lineup heading into the upcoming season, Anthony may be on the brink of realizing his championship aspirations.

Anthony, who previously played for the New York Knicks from 2011 to 2017, shares with PEOPLE that he is feeling a similar level of excitement about playing in Los Angeles as he did during his time in New York.

“Playing for the Knicks in New York, with all the prestige and history associated with it, gave me a unique feeling, and I’m experiencing that same sensation now with the Lakers,” he explains. “Both cities, New York and Los Angeles, are iconic and boast large markets. Representing both of these renowned organizations is incredibly special to me.”

While accustomed to the spotlight, Anthony acknowledges the heightened pressure to succeed in the upcoming season. However, he believes that his extensive career experiences have equipped him for this pivotal opportunity.

“I’m bringing a different mindset,” Anthony explains of his contribution to the Lakers. “A new perspective on the game, recognizing my role, comprehending the stakes, and grasping our collective objectives, while also acknowledging the journey we must undertake to achieve them, every step of the way, from the outset until the conclusion.”

As a father, Anthony emphasizes, “That’s what excites me the most—the journey itself, from the beginning to the end.”