The Hebrew word lev, Hebrew for “heart,” has a numerical value in Gematria of 32. One of the professional basketball players who played with the most heart—the Israeli citizen and convert to Judaism Amar’e Stoudemire—is slated to be inducted into the Phoenix Suns “ring of honor” next season and to have his jersey (No. 32) retired.
The ring is the team’s “highest honor bestowed to individuals who have made an enduring impact on the organization, community and Suns fans,” according to an NBA release.
“Amar’e was one of the most electrifying players the league has ever seen,” stated Mat Ishbia, who owns the Suns.
Ishbia added that Stoudemire and Shawn Marion, who will be similarly honored, “helped define the Suns and inspired generations of fans.”
Beyond his athletic prowess, Stoudemire, 40—who measures 6 feet, 10 inches—has inspired others with his deep commitment to learning Torah and embracing his Jewish identity. He studied at the Ohr Somayach yeshivah in Jerusalem, and his enthusiasm helped lead his teammate, Chris Smith, to convert to Judaism in 2017.
Stoudemire became an Israeli citizen in 2019. “My body is flooded with emotions now. My love for Israel has been with me for many years, and being part of Israel is something very special,” he said at the time.