Stoudamire: Wont Listen To Critics

NEW YORK, NEW YORK -- Big man Amare Stoudamire is easy to spot this week during the McDonald's All American event. Whenever he scrimmages, there are several NBA scouts following him around and watching his every physical move.

Stoudamire is a talent for sure. He is headed to the NBA for sure. Despite what you may read or have read, Amare has been preparing for this step the past year.

He has also received harsh words from critics. Some claim he is a poster boy for what has gone wrong in the NBA. Some believe he will be another high school player who will jump to the NBA only to find the bench. (See last year's group of high schoolers that jumped to the NBA this season)

"I don't listen to them or read that stuff," Stoudamire said during McDonald's Media Day. "I am staying positive. I have changed my attitude. I keep faith in the Man above."

Stoudamire dismissed any suggestions he feels pressure to perform well in tonight's McDonald's All American game at Madison Square Garden. There will be a scout from every NBA team on hand to watch these high school all stars play. "I don't feel any pressure," Stoudamire said. "I am just going to go out there and play the best I can."

Stoudamire, who at one time gave fans a head fake by committing to Memphis, indicated he only has to satisfy a higher power and himself. "I keep working hard," Amare said. "I just have to prove it to myself. I don't listen to the critics. I keep my faith in the Lord."