Amar’e Stoudemire: Standing Tall and Talented

Amar’e Stoudemire has done the impossible by rallying the decade long disenfranchised Knicks’ fans and putting New York back on the map. Not surprising since Florida-born Stoudemire has a history of beating the odds. At 12, he lost his father and during his teens struggled while his mother was in and out of jail. Amar’e, who attended six different high schools, stayed centered by believing in God. In his junior year, he discovered basketball, and rocketed to become MVP of the Nike Summer League. He joined the Phoenix Suns upon graduation, and is now using his tenacity to resurrect the embattled New York Knicks. Amar’e’s 26-game streak scoring 20 points or more, the third longest in Knickerbockers’ history puts the 28-year-old 6 foot 10 Power Forward firmly in the spotlight. Nexos Latinos caught up with him to get his take on his experiences.

How are you feeling about the season?
The season so far has been gratifying, but we want more. We have championship goals and we won’t let down until we get there. If we keep improving, the sky’s the limit.

What was the transition like from Phoenix to New York?
The transition has been unbelievable. No one expected us to be as good as we are and we’re accepting the challenge.

Why did you choose NY?
New York is the center of the world. There is no greater place. This was such a great opportunity.

How do you feel about revitalizing the franchise?
Recharging this team is not about me – it’s been a team effort. Raymond Felton is a true warrior. Danilo Gallinari is an incredible outside shooter and Wilson Chandler is a quiet assassin. We have a great system in place that’s making us successful.

How has it been with the New York fans?
Knicks fans are incredible. There is a buzz at Madison Square Garden that compares to no place else.

You didn’t play basketball until you were 14. What took you so long and what made you start playing basketball?
Playing the game of basketball changed my life. Once I realized where the game could take me, I became committed.

You have come back in a big way after your knee and eye surgeries. How did you do it?
I came back because of hard work and being dedicated to the game of basketball. I work hard at taking care of my body and I respect the game. I strive to be the best and that has kept me motivated.

Your nickname is stats. What do you think about that?
My nick name is STATS – it stands for “Standing Tall And Talented.”