In randomly random news, New York Knicks forward Amar’e Stoudemire has decided to embrace his Jewish roots. TheJerusalemPost.com reports that Stoudemire landed in Israel yesterday. He announce his trip via twitter, “This is going to be a great trip. The holy land. Learn about it, ze ha’halom sheli”– which is Hebrew for “this is my dream”.
Already being touted as the ‘#1 Jewish athlete of all time’, Stoudemire spoke with The Jerusalem Post while dining with girlfriend Alexis. “I am so excited to be here,see all the important historical sites, learn Hebrew and to get a better understanding of my heritage,” he said. Stoudemire continues:
“I have been aware since my youth that I am a Hebrew through my mother, and that is something that has played a subtle but important role in my development. I have never hid my spiritual roots, they just weren’t something that came under the spotlight. I am proud to be a Hebrew and embrace my Jewish background.”
This will be a week-long trip before Stoudemire returns New York to prepare for the upcoming season. Amar’e signed with the New York Knicks for $100 million over five years. Stoudemire also thinks that embracing his Hebrew heritage will give him ‘street cred’ in his new home since New York has the largest Jewish population outside of Israel. There is even speculation that Amar’e may join the Israeli national basketball team, although I do believe it is more wishful thinking than speculation.
This has to be the weirdest NBA off season since Dennis Rodman wore a wedding dress and married himself.
Erikka is the newest member of the BSO staff and resident female voice. You can follow her on twitter here.