Dwight Howard is set to join the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as a first-ballot inductee in 2025. The official announcement will take place during the men’s college basketball Final Four on Saturday, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
This exciting news comes shortly after it was reported that Carmelo Anthony, another NBA star, will also be inducted this year. Howard, who was drafted first overall by the Orlando Magic in 2004, has had a remarkable career. He earned eight All-Star selections, eight All-NBA honors, and three Defensive Player of the Year awards, making him one of only four players to achieve that feat.
Known for his athleticism, Howard famously won the 2008 Slam Dunk Contest while wearing a Superman cape, a nod to his nickname. Throughout his career, he led the NBA in rebounding average five times and is currently ranked 10th in NBA history for career rebounds, with a total of 14,627.
In his 1,242 games, Howard averaged 15.7 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game. He spent his first eight seasons with the Magic before playing for several teams, including the Lakers, Rockets, Hornets, Hawks, 76ers, and Wizards.
Howard played a pivotal role in helping the Lakers win the NBA Finals in the 2019-20 season, marking his first championship title. He was also recognized for his contributions that season, finishing ninth in the Sixth Man of the Year voting.
His last appearance in the NBA was during the 2021-22 season with the Lakers. As he prepares for this prestigious induction, fans and fellow players alike celebrate his significant impact on the game of basketball.
