Knicks star Amar’e Stoudemire has set his sights on Grammy-winning singer and model Ciara.
New York’s hottest sports hero has been spotted dining out with the stunning songbird in recent weeks, and on Monday night, the pair shared dinner at STK with a group of 15, including fellow Knick Carmelo Anthony and his wife, LaLa Vazquez. But sources tell us Amar’e and Ciara have also been seen together alone at the restaurant and at other Meatpacking hot spots.
One said, “Ciara is best friends with LaLa and has been attending Knicks games with her, including Monday’s game. Through Melo and LaLa, her friendship with Amar’e has developed. They have been seen out together on numerous occasions.”
One spy said Ciara and Amar’e had dinner at STK alone together two weeks ago, when Amar’e was overheard asking for a private table as they arrived. They’ve also been spotted at The Collective.
Five-time Grammy nominee Ciara has released three albums and had hits including “Love Sex Magic” with Justin Timberlake. She previously dated Bow Wow and has been linked to 50 Cent. A rumor linking her to Miami Heat star LeBron James in January was denied.
A rep for Stoudemire told us, “I know that they are friends,” but declined to comment further. But a source close to the team added, “Ciara is extremely close to LaLa and always sits with her in Carmelo’s seats at the games. Ciara has become friends with Amar’e because they are all spending time together.” Reps for Ciara didn’t get back to us.
Last night, the Knicks threw an official “Welcome to New York” party for Carmelo at Abe & Arthur’s.
Sources said the team booked a private room for the 75-person bash and ordered a three-tier cake decorated with Melo’s jersey, yellow taxi cabs and the New York skyline.