Long-time hoops fans will remember Dwight Howard as a juggernaut of a center during the 2000s era of NBA basketball. He was nearly unstoppable during the peak of his powers, and he was the core of an exciting 2009 Orlando Magic team that put up a great fight against the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2009 NBA Finals.
After failing to win a ring with the Magic, he went on a journey across multiple teams in search of a championship. However, it would take him late into his career before he finally wins one with the LeBron James-led Lakers in the 2020 NBA Finals.
He’s not been seen in the league for years, but he hasn’t kept his mouth shut when discussing issues he can relate to.
If you’re wondering why a player of Howard’s stature quietly left the league, the man himself gave his response to the question.
Dwight Howard dives into his reasons for playing elsewhere
Howard appeared on Gilbert Arenas’ podcast and talked about his decision to leave the league he’s been a part of since 2004.
Per Fadeaway World’s Aaditya Krishnamurthy:
“I love the game, I’ve always loved it. I’ve put in so much work, so much time. Now I want to give that time to the kids. I done sacrificed so much time away, so I can train and do all that stuff. The kids are getting older…”
“Fans (in Taiwan) who never had a chance to come to see an NBA game, now they get the chance to watch us play. It’s an amazing feeling. Going over there brought me back to life…”
Any player who reached the highs Howard enjoyed during his stint in the league would find it hard to let go of the exciting and fast-paced lifestyle of the league. However, the center made it clear that he was simply at a different point in his life.
While he still enjoyed playing basketball by the time he stepped away from the league, he found it more meaningful to spend time with his loved ones. It’s a decision many family men can understand.
Moreover, it’s not like Howard hasn’t had a great run in the league. Aside from winning a ring with the Lakers, he’s an eight-time All-Star, eight-time All-NBA awardee, and three-time Defensive Player of the Year winner. He averaged 15.7 points, 11.8 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 1.8 blocks in his 18 years as an NBA player.
Choosing family over ball is a big decision, and Howard seems to be happy with his choice.
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