Amar’e Stoudemire #1 of the New York Knicks looks on during the fourth quarter against the Golden State Warriors at Madison Square Garden on February 7, 2015 in New York City.The Golden State Warriors defeated the New York Knicks 106-92.NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Elsa/Getty Images/AFP
Less than a week after announcing his retirement, former National Basketball Association star Amar’e Stoudemire said Monday he is continuing his career in Israel.
“I may be retiring from the NBA, but I’m not saying goodbye to basketball just yet. My next step is playing for Hapoel Jerusalem, one of the top teams in Europe. This isn’t about collecting a paycheck overseas though; it’s a spiritual journey, too,” Stoudemire said.
Stoudemire, 33, said at a news conference Monday in New York that he would sign a two-year deal with Hapoel Jerusalem, the team he co-owns.
As part of the deal, American sports broadcaster ESPN reported he will sell his ownership shares that he purchased in 2013.