Amar’e Stoudemire Retires From The NBA: Colleagues Comment- blogged by @niksofly

After 14 seasons as a NBA player, #AmareStoudemire calls it quits. On Tuesday, the six All-Star selection veteran announced his retirement. Stoudemire, 33, retires as a member of the #NewYorkKnicks one last time.

Stoudemire who played with the #Knicks from 2010-15 has always been fond of the organization. In a tweet from the official account of the #Knicks, Stoudemire declared, “My heart had always remained in the Big Apple.”

Although his professional career may have ended in the NBA, Stoudemire has options to play overseas in China or on the Israeli team in Hapoel, Jerusalem that he co-owns, according to Marc Stein of ESPN.com

Retirement is always bittersweet.The excitement of a new chapter in one’s life is always a great thing, but knowing that previous chapter is written permanently can be sorrowful.Of course the man that brought many memorable moments during his tenure in the league couldn’t leave without those that called him a colleague and friend shared their sentiments.

The Phoenix Suns drafted the then- rookie in 2002 issued the statement:”The Phoenix Suns family congratulates [Amar’e] Stoudemire on a remarkable NBA career. As the 2003 NBA Rookie of the Year and a five-time All-Star during his time in Phoenix, Amar’e’s eight seasons with our franchise provided some of the most exciting Suns basketball this city has ever seen. Off the court, Amar’e represented himself with integrity and class every step of the way, leaving an indelible impression on countless kids in our community. We’re proud to have called Amar’e one of our own and wish him nothing but the best in his retirement. Congrats, STAT!”

Dwayne Wade chimed in…

Carmelo Anthony added his two cents as well…

Iman Shumpert didn’t want to be left out…

Amar’e Stoudemire’s retirement would not be official without the Knicks’ press release. Peep it below…