Amar’e Stoudemire
A convert to Judaism and Israeli citizen, he is “one of the most electrifying players the league has ever seen,” the team’s owner said.
Israeli basketball fans paid tribute to the late NBA player during a Maccabi Tel Aviv vs. Hapoel Tel Aviv match when they stood up and in unison chanted “Kobe Bryant.”
“Do not allow this to be something that hinders your belief. Stay strong, teach peace and love, and continue to grow as a people,” says basketball player Amar’e Stoudemire, who now holds Israeli citizenship.
The 6-foot-10-inch American-born basketball star’s identity card was presented to him by Interior Minister Aryeh Deri and Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion at a ceremony attended by Hapoel Jerusalem co-owner Eyal Chomsky and Hapoel Jerusalem general manager Guy Harel.
“It’s a blessing for me and my family to be able to produce such great wines from a land like the land of Israel, so we’re constantly counting our blessings for that,” Stoudemire told reporters.
