Two former teammates of LeBron James had a bitter end to their Lakers career. Anthony Davis and Dwight Howard were part of the bubble team that won the championship for the Purple and Gold! Fast forward to today, neither are part of the franchise, and DH12 is not aiming for a return to the NBA. Recently, the former champion also received a first-ballot HOF status, and AD made sure to give flowers to his former teammate.

Before the huge match against the Lakers, Davis did his media duties and spoke about DH12 being part of the Hall of Fame. “I think you know Dwight should definitely been in that top 75 list. Um, but you know, he’s a generational talent. What he was able to do in Orlando to start off his career, phenomenal athlete defender, multiple defensive player of the years, helped us win the title in 20.”

Landon Buford, a Sports and Entertainment Journalist, added the quotes on X, which reached Dwight Howard. The 39-year-old was grateful that his former teammate had huge regard for him. “My guy appreciate you AD 🤞🏾.” The exclusion from the Top 75 has always been a sour subject for the 3x DPOY. At the time, many believed he deserved a spot over Anthony Davis, who made the list. But it’s clear that even the current Mavs star wanted Howard to receive that honor.

Even though the snub will always sting, the 2004 overall number 1 draft pick is making sure to end his career on his own terms. Despite many pleas from fans to return to the Lakers, Dwight Howard will return to an LA franchise, but not to a team that you may think.

“Today, the BIG3 announced that legendary NBA veteran Dwight Howard has signed with the Los Angeles Riot and will play his final season of professional basketball with the BIG3 in summer 2025.” Yes, DH12 will be part of Ice Cube’s 3×3 league, and his coach on the team will be none other than Nick Young! So, this is the closing chapter that the former champion wants in his career.

The NBA Top 75 snub put doubts in Dwight Howard’s mind regarding his Hall of Fame status

The anniversary team was selected during the 2021-22 season. Yes, Dwight Howard’s exclusion did cause many greats to speak about it at the time. Stan Van Gundy, the former Orlando Magic coach, called it ‘ridiculous’. Gilbert Arenas made a bigger claim that at least 75% of the NBA players are still in disbelief, and it was media votes that changed the decision. So, it would be understandable if DH12 had reservations about another NBA achievement.

“I’m not retired yet but I’ll take it 😅 I’m extremely grateful I just pray they don’t do me like they did the last list🙏🏾.” The prayer worked in his favor, and he is part of the 2025 Hall of Fame class, alongside Carmelo Anthony, Sue Bird, Sylvia Fowles, and Maya Moore. To complete the list, Billy Donovan, Danny Crawford, and the 2008 Redeem Team joined them.

Even though last year, Dwight Howard wanted to return to the Lakers. However, this year, he was content about not playing in the league. But he is not taking his Big3 opportunity lightly.

“I’m excited to join Ice Cube and the BIG3 – especially right after being inducted into the basketball Hall of Fame,” said Howard. “Words can’t describe how grateful I am for these opportunities. I can’t wait to join the LA Riot and try to bring another championship to the city of LA. But, the ultimate goal I have is to help the league go global.“