Former Phoenix Sun Amar’e Stoudemire announces retirement

Amar’e Stoudemire announced his retirement from the NBA on Tuesday, putting an end to a productive 14-year career that began in Phoenix with the Suns and also saw him make stops in New York, Dallas and Miami.

Stoudemire, who played last season with the Heat, signed a one-day contract with the Knicks before calling it quits at 33 years of age.

Six-time All-Star Amar'e Stoudemire announces his retirement after signing with Knicks. pic.twitter.com/TerYKx8qRe

— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpearsESPN) July 26, 2016

Chosen ninth overall in the 2002 NBA Draft out of high school by the Suns, Stoudemire made his presence felt early on as he averaged 13.5 points and 8.8 rebounds per game en route to winning the Rookie of the Year Award. The Valley got a glimpse of what was to come the following season when, in 55 games, he averaged 20.6 points and nine rebounds per night.

However it was his third season, and first with point guard Steve Nash, when “STAT” officially became a star.

That year, he averaged 26 points and 8.9 rebounds per game while helping the Suns reach the Western Conference Finals.

His career took a detour the following year as he underwent microfracture surgery, a procedure that limited him to just three games, but came back strong in 2006-07 to average 20.4 points and 9.6 rebounds per game.

In eight seasons with the Suns, Stoudemire averaged 21.4 points and 8.9 rebounds per game. He was an All-Star five times, and currently ranks among the franchise’s all-time leaders in points, rebounds, free throws and blocks.

The Suns released a statement following Stoudemire’s retirement:

“The Phoenix Suns family congratulates Amar’e Stoudemire on a remarkable NBA career. As the 2003 NBA Rookie of the Year and a five-time All-Star during his time in Phoenix, Amar’e’s eight seasons with our franchise provided some of the most exciting Suns basketball this city has ever seen. Off the court, Amar’e represented himself with integrity and class every step of the way, leaving an indelible impression on countless kids in our community. We’re proud to have called Amar’e one of our own and wish him nothing but the best in his retirement. Congrats, STAT!”

Stoudemire left Phoenix following the Suns’ 2010 Western Conference Finals appearance to sign with the Knicks. He spent five seasons in the Big Apple before being waived in 2015. He latched on with the Mavericks to finish out that season, and then spent 2015-16 with the Heat.

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