His father died when he was 12. His mother was in and out of jail for various offenses. His older brother was arrested 22 times since 1993. His childhood was marked by instability and poverty.
Yet despite these life challenges, Amar’e Stoudemire’s journey is one of resilience, transformation, and faith. Born in Lake Wales, Florida, in 1982, he overcame immense obstacles and found refuge in sports. After emerging as Florida’s Mr. Basketball in 2002, he was drafted directly out of high school as the ninth overall pick in the 2002 NBA draft by the Phoenix Suns.
The stats after that are shocking.
Stoudemire was named Rookie of the Year in 2003, the first high school draftee to win the award. He earned the NBA All-Star title six times. He averaged 25 points per game. He was the first Knicks all-star starter since Patrick Ewing. He would go on to play 14 NBA seasons with the Phoenix Suns, Knicks, Dallas Mavericks, and Miami Heat.
“When things were tough, basketball became my refuge and path forward,” Stoudemire said. “Now, I try to continue to inspire as a cultural bridge using my faith and philosophy to guide my life’s mission of perseverance, wellness, and unity.”
The New York Knicks
Stoudemire’s history with the Knicks began in July 2010, when he signed a multi-year contract for $100 million. This created significant excitement for fans in both New York and New Jersey, and it led Stoudemire to famously declare, “The Knicks are back!”
During his first season with the Knicks, 2010-11, he had one of the longest 30-point scoring streaks in franchise history. He averaged 25.3 points and 8.2 rebounds per game. He was a first-time nominee for the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2025, but has not been inducted.
Stoudemire’s time in New York was characterized by his impact and leadership, followed by struggles with injuries. A back injury in 2011 prompted him to add weight to strengthen his back, which negatively impacted his signature explosiveness. This was followed by multiple surgeries, causing him to ultimately retire as a Knick in 2016, but his connection to fans in New York and New Jersey will endure.
Amar'e Stoudemire
Legendary NBA star Amar'e Stoudemire holds a Grab1 sports and health drink in Hoboken, New Jersey, on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025. Karim Shamsi-Basha
Post-NBA Life mission
To embrace that life mission of perseverance, wellness, and unity mentioned above, Stoudemire has partnered with the Bayonne company, Kayco, to promote Grab1, a food and beverage brand designed for health and fitness enthusiasts.
But Stoudemire’s partnership with the Jewish brand is more than just a business deal.
“What excites me is that this brand’s vision aligns with my own values of health, authenticity, and respect for tradition. As a partner, I’ll not only help share that message but also contribute to developing future product extensions that carry forward Grab1’s mission of making kosher, healthy living accessible to everyone,” Stoudemire said.
With a lifelong interest in the Hebrew Bible and Jewish history, Stoudemire lived and studied in Israel after retiring from the NBA. In 2020, he officially converted to Orthodox Judaism and took the Hebrew name, Yahoshafat Ben Avraham.
Today, Stoudemire is an observant Jew who keeps kosher, observes Shabbat, and studies the Torah.
“Living the Jewish life has given me a deep respect for mindful eating, wellness, and community,” Stoudemire said. “We’re building more than a brand with Grab1; we’re creating products that bring people together in a healthier way.”
Stoudemire pursued a new chapter in Israel after his NBA career. He played for and co-owned Hapoel Jerusalem before joining Maccabi Tel Aviv, winning the Israeli Basketball Premier League title in 2020 and earning finals MVP honors.
Stoudemire will work with Grab1 to explore new frontiers in the Kosher sports and fitness category. Stoudemire’s name, likeness, and inspiring personal journey will be part of national marketing campaigns, product packaging, and social media content. The collaboration will include video and photo shoots, in-person appearances, and storytelling initiatives.
Amar'e Stoudemire
Former NBA player Amar'e Stoudemire is photographed above in Hoboken, New Jersey, on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025.Provided by Kayco
“We are thrilled to align our Grab1 brand with Amar’e Stoudemire,” said Charles Herzog, president of Kayco. “Our shared mission is to connect with individuals who value holistic well-being and the highest kosher standards.”
The Grab1 brand includes a whey protein powder, a hydrate infused with essential electrolytes and protein bars.
In addition, Stoudemire is the founder of Stoudemire Wines and the author of a memoir and a series of children’s books. He has created the Stoudemire Foundation to mentor and help youth at risk, and he continues to advocate for faith, perseverance, and cultural unity.
“My Jewish faith and values teach me discipline, balance, and purpose; all principles I carry both on and off the court,” Stoudemire said.
For someone who endured debilitating early life struggles, Stoudemire serves as a symbol of human resilience.
Karim Shamsi-Basha may be reached atkshamsi-basha@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him onTwitter &Instagram.
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