Kevin Durant, Devin Booker Pay Tribute Hours Before Phoenix Legend Immortalized in Ring of Honor Ceremony

The Phoenix Suns‘ Ring of Honor is a symbol of excellence. An award that recognizes the impact of an individual on the legacy of the Suns. And there has been a latest addition to the list of the awardees. 14x All-Star Kevin Durant described one legend as “one of those players that set the culture, set the standard here in Phoenix for a long time.” KD was referring to Amar’e Stoudemire of course, who spent the first 8 seasons of his NBA career in Phoenix.

Ahead of Stoudemire’s Ring of Honor induction ceremony, the Suns shared a tribute video for Stoudemire featuring bites from the current roster. Their newest star Bradley Beal believes that there is no one who played the game like STAT. “To play as tough as he did, as competitive he was,” Beal stated. Meanwhile, Devin Booker described the ex-Suns star and his gameplay as, “just tenacious, aggressive, tear the ring down.”

Earlier in a video message posted by the Suns on their official account, STAT expressed gratitude to his fans. “Suns fans, thank you for all the support since my 18-year-old rookie year all the way up to now. You guys supported me with much love. I want to give that little back to you. Thank you,” Amar’e Stoudemire said.

Stoudemire has now become the 17th individual and 12th player in the NBA history to be bestowed with the Suns’ Ring of Honor. It is worth mentioning that apart from the players, the honor is also bestowed upon coaches, and other personnel who have made significant contributions to the Phoenix Suns.

Amar’e Stoudemire’s run with the Phoenix Suns

Apart from his high-flying dunks, clutch shots and defensive prowess, Stoudemire is also remembered for his crucial role in shaping the Suns’ identity in the early 2000s. He was drafted by the Suns in 2002  and received the Rookie of the Year award for his immediate impact. He also helped the Suns reach Western Conference finals twice (2006 and 2010).

Stoudemire averaged 21.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks in his 516 games with the Phoenix Suns. Additionally, when it comes to Suns’ all time stats, he stands at seventh in the points, third in the free throws, third in rebounds and fifth in blocks.

Apart from this, of Stoudemire’s 6 All Star appearances, five came while playing for the Suns. However, his later seasons in the Suns were hampered by injuries and he eventually parted ways with the organization in 2010.

Read More: Reggie Miller, Childhood Idol of Suns Legend, Honors Remarkable Achievement with Heartfelt Tribute