MIAMI (VINnews) – Jewish former NBA superstar Amar’e Stoudemire is beginning a new chapter in his life, graduating from a Miami police academy as he prepares to serve with the Miami-Dade Schools Police Department.
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Stoudemire, who embraced Judaism during his post-basketball career and received Israeli citizenship in 2019, graduated Wednesday from Miami Dade College’s School of Justice Basic Law Enforcement Academy after months of intensive training. He is also known by his Hebrew name, Yahoshafat Ben Avraham.

The six-time NBA All-Star and Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame inductee has spoken about his childhood dream of becoming a police officer. His family also includes several members who served in law enforcement.

“It’s something I always wanted to do since I was a kid,” Stoudemire told Sports Illustrated.

Stoudemire, 43, rose to prominence as a star forward with the Phoenix Suns and later played for the New York Knicks, Dallas Mavericks and Miami Heat. He averaged 18.9 points and 7.8 rebounds over 846 regular-season NBA games and was named the NBA Rookie of the Year in 2003.

His connection to Israel deepened after his playing career brought him to the country, where he played professional basketball and became increasingly involved in Jewish life.

Stoudemire also received the Harry “Coach” Everett Award in recognition of his contributions to the police academy program.

His transition from professional basketball to law enforcement marks a significant career change, with a focus on public service, community engagement and mentoring young people.