IT'S FINALLY HAPPENING!!!
Carmelo Anthony is teaming up with his bestie, LeBron James -- the 10-time All-Star just signed a 1-year deal with the Los Angeles Lakers!!!
Of course, LBJ and Melo have been tight for 20 years ... but aside from Team USA action, the two never suited up for the same NBA team.
UNTIL NOW!!!
Melo's manager, Bay Frazier, made the news official on Tuesday ... but the official terms of the deal have not been announced just yet.
Anthony is 37 years old now, but the guy has proven he can still hoop -- averaging 13 points a game and playing a key role with the Portland Trail Blazers last season.
Anthony is one of the best players of his era -- he's made the All-NBA team 6 times, was the scoring champ in 2013 and is 10th in points in league history.
The signing adds to the Lakers' big haul through two days of free agency -- Trevor Ariza, Kent Bazemore, Wayne Ellington, Malik Monk and Dwight Howard have all agreed to suit up for the Purple and Gold.