“For me this is special,” Anthony said. “I do this a lot so I get a chance to really learn the family, know the family and then ask questions.

Carmelo Anthony said he'd never been in a supermarket in New York City, but a couple of months into his Thunder career, it was his first stop as part of the Thunder Cares program.

Anthony looked down and put his arm around eight-year-old Rene Dominguez, who was hugging up against the leg of the 6-foot-8 star. They stood next to three carts full of groceries Dominguez had the privilege of filling up with his family.

Anthony joined Dominguez, the boy’s two sisters Anahi Garcia, 15, and Izabella Dominguez, 6, as well as their mother Dian Dominguez on a Homeland shopping spree in Northwest Oklahoma City on Thursday. Dian is caring for the three children and grandparents independently, and Anahi’s father recently passed away.

Anahi, a freshman at Putnam City High School, was nominated for the shopping spree, one of four the Thunder will provide this season to families in need throughout the greater OKC area. The team also provided $500 to the family.

“I got a new best friend here in ‘Junior,’ Anthony said about Rene. “It’s been a great day for me to help.”