Amar’e Stoudemire’s Brother Dies in Car Crash

Heartbreaking news out of Florida, where the older brother of New York Knicks star forward Amar’e Stoudemire tragically died Monday morning in a car accident on a Lake Wales, FL highway. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Amar’e and his family. From the NY Daily News: “Amar’e Stoudemire returned to Florida early Monday following the death of his older brother, Hazell, who died in a car accident. The Knicks announced that Stoudemire would not be available for Monday’s home game against the Utah Jazz and that there is no timetable for his return. Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced. The Knicks play four games this week, including Wednesday at Washington, Friday’s home game with the Lakers and at Minnesota on Saturday. “My thoughts and prayers and everything is with him,” said Knicks coach Mike D’Antoni. “Whatever time he needs to take, he’ll take. And we’ll get him back as soon as possible. “I know he’s very close to his brother so my heart goes out to him. He cherishes his family. He does a great job of maintaining all the relationships. It’s just a trying moment for him.”According to Florida Highway Patrol, the accident occurred on Route 27 in Lake Wales. The older Stoudemire was driving at “a high rate of speed” when he collided with the rear of a tractor trailer. He died at the scene. The Florida Highway Patrol says Stoudemire was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident and they are unsure if alcohol was a factor. Last week, Stoudemire said he was hopeful to make the All-Star team because the game is being played in his hometown of Orlando. He added that it would be a special moment for he and his family, including his brother Hazell.”