Below is the transcript of Don Shane’s one-on-one interview with Suns forward Amare Stoudemire, who’s been the subject of speculation regarding a possible trade that could send him to Detroit to play with the Pistons.
Stoudemire, a 26 year-old power forward, averages 20.9 points per game and is signed through the 2010 season, with a player-option for the 2010-2011 season. He has played with the Suns for the duration of his seven-year career, which began in 2002.
He missed all but three games in 2005-06 due to a knee injury.
Don Shane: All the rumors going around, one of them has you coming here to Detroit. Would you want to come here and play in Detroit?
Amare Stoudemire: I love Detroit. It’s a beautiful city, the fans are phenomenal, but you never know what’s gonna happen. You know, it’s really out of my hands right now and what I’m focused on is the game tonight.
Don Shane: But it’s clear in your mind that you don’t want to be back in Phoenix anymore?
Amare Stoudemire: No, it has nothing to do with me. I would love to be in Phoenix.
Don Shane: What does it have to do with?
Amare Stoudemire: I think financial problems with the organization. Right now they’re trying to figure it out. My job is to bring my A-game every night so I’m focused on the game with Detroit.
Don Shane: Do you think something could happen quickly?
Amare Stoudemire: I’m not sure. I’m really not sure. I think they’re trying to figure something out, but I’m not sure how fast it’s gonna work, when it’s gonna work or if it’s gonna even work, so, like I said, my job is to come out and play as hard as I can and try to get this win tonight.
Don Shane: How much would you enjoy coming to play for Joe Dumars and an organization that has such a good reputation?
Amare Stoudemire: It would be phenomenal. I think the fans here have been probably the top fans in the world since I’ve been in the NBA. They’re always cheering their team on and every time we come here, their always loud and rowdy, so it would be fun to play here.
Don Shane: A lot of times guys aren’t willing to talk about stuff like this, but you are. How come?
Amare Stoudemire: Well I’m just open. I’m always eager to bring in more fans and my fans voted me to be a starter in the All-Star Game so it’s always great to give back to them and let them know I appreciate them.
