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Phoenix Suns legend Amar’e Stoudemire, who last played in the NBA in 2016 for the Miami Heat, has retired from professional basketball in Israel.
Amar'e Stoudemire Retires In Israel https://t.co/CckJdDEhK3 pic.twitter.com/evj3eMK3dz
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) September 3, 2017
Stoudemire is the veteran of 14 NBA seasons, eight of those with the Suns, and one public feud with sportswriter Paul Coro. His career also included time with the New York Knicks and Dallas Mavericks.
He announced his retirement on Instagram, because that’s how you retire in 2017.
“We enjoyed the city, its people, the holy places and of course Hapoel fans,” Stoudemire wrote. “Although I would have liked to return for another season, the team, coach and I could not find a role that I felt would allow me to meaningfully contribute in the way I have always been accustomed to play I feel it is my time now, to return to the shareholder’s position and help make this team even better.”
Stoudemire played one season in Israel for Hapoel Jerusalem. He was named MVP of the All-Star Game.