After 14 seasons in the NBA, Amar’e Stoudemire announced his decision to retire Tuesday.
Amar’e Stoudemire announced his retirement as a player in the National Basketball Association today. #OAKAAK pic.twitter.com/GQyLRBFamV
— NY_KnicksPR (@NY_KnicksPR) July 26, 2016
Stoudemire played with the Miami Heat most recently in 2015, but signed his final contract with the New York Knicks on Tuesday, the team he played for from 2010-2015. The Knicks announced Stoudemire’s decision in a tweet, which included the not-so-ever-popular hashtag, #OAKAAK, which is an acronym for “Once a Knick, Always a Knick.”
At just 33-years old, the decision seems to be a surprise to many. This past season, he told the Miami Herald that he wanted to continue playing following the 2015-16 season.
He’s not over basketball, even after all the adversity, even with his role reduced, and even though he doesn’t necessarily need it. Like Bosh, Stoudemire has endless curiosity, and has accumulated an impressive portfolio of post-career opportunities. He mentions film, art dealing, living abroad and farming (“I love to live off the land, I love natural living”) as appealing post-career options. Still, he’s not ready for that career to end, nor to leave the Heat; he hopes to return after becoming a free agent this summer.
Stoudemire joined the NBA in 2003 as a senior out of high school. He was drafted by the Phoenix Suns with the No. 9 overall pick and went onto win Rookie of the Year. Stoudemire finished his career averaging 18.9 points and 7.8 rebounds per game.
And while Stoudemire will be remembered for his on-court play, we cannot forget his role in the Heat’s version of the “Martin” theme song.
If you were around back in the 90's… we think you'll enjoy this.https://t.co/aZ7jTj6eub
— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) February 9, 2016