Amare Stoudemire was born on November 16, 1982, in Lake Wales, Florida, to parents Carrie and Hazell Stoudemire. Growing up, Amare showed a natural talent for basketball, even though he didn't start playing until he was 14 years old.
Despite starting late, Stoudemire quickly made a name for himself on the court. He attended Cypress Creek High School in Orlando, Florida, where he played two years of high school basketball. His skill and determination were evident as he was named Florida's Mr. Basketball in 2002.
After high school, Stoudemire decided to forgo college and enter the NBA draft. In 2002, he was selected as the 9th overall pick by the Phoenix Suns. He made an immediate impact, winning NBA Rookie of the Year in 2003 and being named an NBA All-Star six times during his career with the Suns.
Stoudemire spent eight successful years with the Phoenix Suns before signing with the New York Knicks in 2010. He continued to excel on the court, earning a reputation as a dominant power forward. In 2015, after agreeing to a buyout with the Knicks, Stoudemire signed with the Dallas Mavericks.
Off the court, Stoudemire's family is his top priority. In 2012, he married Alexis Welch, with whom he has three children: daughters Are and Assata, and son Amare Jr. He retired as a member of the New York Knicks in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and dedication to the sport he loves.
During his time with the Knicks, Stoudemire had the opportunity to play alongside high-scoring forward Carmelo Anthony. The dynamic duo brought a new level of excitement to the team and solidified Stoudemire's status as a key player in the NBA.
Amare Stoudemire will always be remembered for his impressive basketball career and his impact both on and off the court. His determination, skill, and passion for the game have left a lasting impression on the NBA and the fans who cheered him on throughout his career.
Related links