After NBA retirement, Stoudemire to play for Israeli team

NEW YORK - Amar'e Stoudemire isn't done yet.

After retiring from the NBA on July 26, Stoudemire signed a two-year contract Monday to play for Israeli team Hapoel Jerusalem.

Stoudemire says it was a very emotional decision for him and his family. The six-time NBA All-Star has visited Jerusalem on multiple occasions, but said getting the opportunity to play in Jerusalem will be a spiritual journey. Stoudemire has said he considers himself culturally Jewish.

Stoudemire was part of an ownership group that purchased Hapoel Jerusalem in 2013. As part of his new contract, he will sell his shares to majority owner Ori Allon.

Stoudemire is a 14-year NBA veteran who was the No. 9 pick in the 2002 draft by the Phoenix Suns.