Metta World Peace to change name to The Pandas Friend, he says

Metta World Peace wants to change his name again.

China Daily initially reported that the former NBA star’s new name will be Panda Friend, but World Peace revealed Thursday afteroon that he has another name in mind.

Tweeted World Peace: “Guys my chinese name is not ‘Panda Friend’, its ‘The Pandas Friend.’”

World Peace has announced that he has agreed to play overseas in China. He signed a one-year deal worth $1.43 million with the Sichuan Blue Whales, according to the newspaper.

He recently tweeted: “First thing I am doing when I get to china will be visiting Pandas with my daughter @BabyGirl_Sade.”

He later added, “New Chinese name coming soon. You guys are going to love it!!!!”

World Peace, who played for the Lakers from 2009-2010 through 2012-2013, changed his name during his tenure with the team. Formerly known as Ron Artest, he became World Peace after filing a legal petition in September 2011.

The 34-year-old small forward averaged 13.8 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.8 steals during his 15 seasons in the NBA.

Twitter: @melissarohlin