Amare Stoudemire, Alexis Welch Engaged: $1 Million 8.5 Carat Ring

New York Knicks captain Amare Stoudemire has finally proposed to his girlfriend and mom of his three children Alexis Welch. The 29-year-old NBA star player reportedly popped the question to Welch in the romantic city of Paris this weekend.

Stoudemire said in a statement to US Weekly: "I have been planning my proposal for a while and overlooking the entire Paris skyline seemed like a perfect place. I am so happy she said yes and now we can continue to build our life together as husband and wife."

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The pair have been dating since 2002 and have three children together. Stoudemire proposed on Saturday just outside of their penthouse which overlooks the Eiffel Tower. He presented a huge 8.5 carat diamond ring which he designed himself with celebrity jeweler Shayan Afshar. The ring is reportedly worth a whopping $1 million.

Stoudemire tweeted his excitement about the engagement: "Paris, the food, & lights were very romantic. When she said yes, it was surreal. I'm still floating. #engaged #blessed."

The newly engaged couple plan to wed in 2013.

The NBA captain was previously linked to singer Ciara and had only just ended his relationship with her. Stoudemire won the NBA Rookie of the Year Award in 2003 and made six appearances in the NBA All-Star Game.