Suns coach Alvin Gentry may play an important role in forward Amar'e Stoudemire's decision this summer.

Stoudemire can opt out of his contract and become a free agent after the season. Phoenix hasn't given up on re-signing the All-Star even if he does opt out.

"It's definitely going to be thought about more so than not," Stoudemire said of Gentry's importance.

Gentry has a strong connection with Stoudemire, something a number of other members of Phoenix's staff have struggled with.

"(It's) his character, his aura," Stoudemire said. "It's hard not to get along with him. He's a funny guy. He's smart. He knows the game of basketball. What's most important for me is to really learn the game as much as possible. In my early career, when I started playing organized ball at 14, I never had a consistent high school coach. To finally want to be under a coach who really wants to teach the game, and that has been great for me."