“Thank you JESUS!” First-overall pick, 8 NBA All-Star appearances, and 5x All-NBA First Team selections. These are some of the accolades that Dwight Howard earned during his celebrated career. And now, he just might get into the Hall of Famers diaries. The powerhouse star who quickly climbed the ladder of popularity surely is deserving of the Hall of Fame honor for many. And he has been nominated this year alongside some legendary basketball personalities. However, is it time? After giving his assurances and clarifications on it, Howard reflects with an old video.

He recently reshared a video of former basketball star Chris Webber from Archived Hoops. Speaking of Howard, Webber highlighted Dwight’s exceptional blocking and rebounding skills, suggesting that these achievements deserve recognition, such as winning the Defensive Player of the Year award and even consideration for the MVP. 

He even went on to name Kobe Bryant and other players who have had All-Star players alongside them, while Howard has single-handedly managed his team. “Listen, he’s first in the NBA. rebounds blocks and double doubles yeah if he finishes this way he’ll be the first player in nba history to do it….So, give him Defensive Player of the Year,” Webber seemed to highlight Howard’s chance of MVP in 2010.

We can see why Webber praised the former Orlando Magic player. Howard was truly exceptional in his prime years. His dominance on the defensive side won him three consecutive Defensive Player of the Year honors.

Not just that, he boasts four First-Team All-Defensive team selections and was named the NBA rebounding leader five times during his NBA career. Only adding more to his glimmering resume is 2x block champion and his name as the 10th all-time in total rebounds with 14,627.

However, he has been equally great on both sides. In his 1,242 games in the league, the Lakers icon averaged 15.7 points on 58.7% field goal shooting and 11.8 rebounds per game. The Champ hasn’t played in the NBA since his last stint with LA in the 2021-22 season. So, is this the end of Howard’s basketball career?

Dwight Howard hasn’t officially retired

The basketball legend has yet to announce his retirement. While he patiently waits for his chance to get back in the league, he is playing in foreign leagues to hone his skills. He had joined the Taiwan Mustangs. Howard is still an active player. To be a Hall of Famer, a player must have at least one and a half years passed after retirement. 

When the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2025 nominations were declared, it raised an eyebrow. The champ took to  “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,” Howard said. social media to clarify his stance on the matter. 

Carmelo Anthony, Doc Rivers, Sue Bird, Billy Donovan, Sylvia Fowles, Maya Moore, are also nominated alongside Howard. There aren’t many days left until the finalists are announced on February 14 during NBA All-Star Weekend.