3:17pm: In response to Hapoel Jerusalem’s announcement that Stoudemire would play for the team if he doesn’t sign an NBA contract, the veteran NBA big man issued a strong denial, as Dionysis Aravantinos of Eurohoops relays.
The club followed up on Stoudemire’s denial by apologizing to him for the timing of the announcement, but indicating that they still believe he’ll join the squad if he doesn’t get an NBA deal.
“During the last week Amare informed the club’s ownership unambiguously that should he not sign with an NBA team he will play join Hapoel Jerusalem,” the team’s statement read, per Aravantinos. “As a result, the club made an official announcement.”
8:39am: Amar’e Stoudemire will play another season in Israel if he doesn’t receive an NBA offer, tweets international writer David Pick.
Stoudemire, 35, has agreed to re-sign with Hapoel Jerusalem, a team he co-owns in the Israeli Basketball Premier League. Stoudemire announced his retirement in September, but has decided his playing days aren’t over.
He is part of the BIG 3 league this summer and recently said he would like another shot at the NBA. A five-time all-league selection, Stoudemire’s last NBA appearance was with the Heat in 2015/16.
Good to see a team willing to give STAT an opportunity to hoop again. You gotta hand it to management.
How come they didn’t mention this on @The Jump” last night!!!?
He looked in good shape in Big 3, but also like a rookie, which is true after all. I wonder if he tried to recruit Nash: Hey lets show this game some REAL P&R!
Go get a ring with the Warriors.
Time to let the dream go old man
Israel is a great place to play ball, though Tel-Aviv is a lot better than Jerusalem, but hey… he can keep the dream alive. Good for Stat.