It's All Gone! Farewell Dwight Howard: Leaving the NBA as a Laker…

Once a dominant force in the NBA, Dwight Howard’s story has taken an unfortunate turn. The former All-Star, once known for his high-flying dunks and defensive prowess, now finds himself far from the glory days of his NBA prime. Rumors have surfaced about Howard's financial struggles, with whispers—albeit from unreliable tabloids—claiming that he is in dire straits, going so far as to borrow money just to get by. While these claims have yet to be confirmed by any credible sources, Howard's recent career moves and personal challenges suggest that his life post-NBA hasn't been easy.

From NBA Stardom to Taiwan’s T1 League

Howard’s journey away from the NBA has been anything but smooth. After leaving the league, he found a temporary home in Taiwan’s T1 League, playing for the Taoyuan Leopards during the 2022-23 season. There, he posted impressive numbers, averaging 23.2 points, 16.2 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. It seemed like a decent landing spot for a player no longer in the NBA spotlight, but Howard’s stint in Taiwan ended after just one season. Whether due to financial disagreements or the team moving in a different direction, the end of his time with the Leopards left Howard scrambling to find new opportunities.

In search of work, Howard bounced around, taking short-term contracts with teams in other parts of the world. His journey took him to the Philippines and beyond, but none of these gigs offered the stability or paycheck that the NBA once did. With each passing season, it became clear that a return to the NBA was no longer a realistic goal for the 38-year-old.

Sacrificing Time for Family

Howard seems to have come to terms with the fact that his NBA days are over. Earlier this month, he admitted publicly that he's made enough sacrifices in basketball and it’s time to focus on his children. With five kids, Howard emphasized that he no longer feels the need to prove himself on the basketball court. After 15 seasons in the NBA, with career averages of 15.7 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game, Howard left his final mark on the league during his second stint with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he won a championship in 2020.

But Howard’s exit from the NBA was far from ceremonious. His off-the-court behavior, particularly controversial comments made during the summer of 2023, effectively closed the door on any possibility of him playing in the CBA (Chinese Basketball Association). His remarks were deemed offensive, leading to an unofficial blacklist from one of the few leagues where he could have potentially earned a lucrative contract. By burning this bridge, Howard removed a key option from his post-NBA career, cutting off what could have been his most reliable source of income outside the U.S.

Financial Woes and Betrayal

To make matters worse, Howard’s financial troubles were compounded by a betrayal from within his own circle. In a recent podcast interview, Howard revealed that he had been swindled out of $7 million by a former agent. This financial loss derailed his plans to purchase the WNBA's Atlanta Dream, a team Howard had hoped to acquire as a long-term investment for his daughters. He envisioned a future where they could one day play for the team he owned, but that dream has since evaporated, along with the funds he lost in the betrayal.

Howard’s failed business venture serves as yet another reminder of how challenging the transition from professional athlete to retirement can be. Many athletes struggle with financial management after their playing days are over, and Howard’s situation, unfortunately, mirrors that of others who faced similar issues post-retirement.

From the Basketball Court to the Dance Floor

With his basketball career on hold, Howard has decided to pursue opportunities outside of sports. One of these ventures has led him to participate in the 33rd season of Dancing with the Stars. Paired with professional dancer Daniella Karagach, the duo has garnered attention not just for their dance skills but for the significant height difference between them—Howard stands at 6'10" (208 cm) while Karagach is just 5'3" (160 cm), making for quite a visual contrast on the dance floor.

In their debut performance, Howard and Karagach scored 22 out of 30 points, a respectable score for a first-time dancer. While the jury is still out on how far Howard will go in the competition, it’s worth noting that Karagach has already won a Dancing with the Stars title. She previously partnered with former Cleveland Cavaliers guard Iman Shumpert, leading him to victory in his season. The pressure is now on Howard to live up to Karagach’s previous success, though the narrative would likely be less forgiving if they fall short this time around.

Despite the media circus surrounding his appearance on the show, Howard seems determined to embrace this new chapter. Dancing may seem far removed from the hardwood, but Howard’s ability to adapt and compete in a different arena speaks to his relentless drive.

Burned Bridges and Fading Opportunities

As Howard focuses on his family and new ventures, it's clear that his basketball journey has come to an end—at least at the professional level. The possibility of a return to the NBA has been dismissed, and the door to China’s lucrative basketball market has been firmly shut. Howard’s comments last year alienated one of the few remaining places where he could have played for significant money.

For years, China was a refuge for former NBA stars looking to extend their careers and cash in on their global popularity. Players like Tracy McGrady, Stephon Marbury, and Gilbert Arenas all found a second wind playing in the CBA, where fans welcomed them with open arms. Howard, however, has now become persona non grata in China, a self-inflicted wound that has cost him millions in potential earnings.

Without the ability to play in China or Taiwan, Howard’s only remaining basketball opportunities might be playing in low-level international leagues or in exhibition games. But even these doors seem to be closing, as his age and diminished athleticism make it harder for teams to justify bringing him on board, even for a short stint.

A Legacy to Remember

Despite the recent hardships, it’s important to remember Dwight Howard for what he achieved on the court. At his peak, he was arguably the most dominant big man in the NBA, winning three consecutive Defensive Player of the Year awards and leading the Orlando Magic to the NBA Finals in 2009. His rebounding, shot-blocking, and interior presence made him a force to be reckoned with, and his jovial personality earned him fans around the world.

Howard’s crowning achievement came in 2020 when he won an NBA championship with the Los Angeles Lakers. After years of criticism and questions about his ability to win at the highest level, Howard silenced his doubters by playing a key role in the Lakers’ title run. It was a fitting end to his NBA career, a final chapter that validated his standing as one of the league’s all-time great centers.

But now, with basketball seemingly behind him, Howard must forge a new path. His foray into dancing, combined with a renewed focus on family, may provide the closure he needs. While it’s sad to see such a talented player struggle in the latter stages of his career, it’s also a reminder that no athlete can escape the passage of time.

The future is uncertain for Dwight Howard, but one thing is clear: his days as a basketball superstar are over. As he bids farewell to the NBA, it’s a bittersweet ending for a player who once ruled the paint but now must navigate the complexities of life after basketball. For fans, Howard’s legacy will remain, even as he steps into the unknown.