'Israel just happened to be a perfect fit,' NBA star Amar’e Stoudemire said about living in Israel. 

Israeli basketball fans danced with former New York Knicks forward Amar’e Stoudemire during a practice open to the public; The annual Tamar Festival (Oct 17-20) near the Dead Sea is one of Israel’s largest music festivals, and much more.

The startling move by Amare Stoudemire, a six-time All-Star former NBA player, instantly provides Hapoel Jerusalem with the biggest basketball star it has ever had.

When the ex-NBA player was asked why he chose to join the Jerusalem basketball team, he gave an incredible response.

Playing in Israel is a "dream come true," Stoudemire said. Playing for Jerusalem will be a "spiritual journey."