Dwight Howard’s Return to Orlando After 10 Years Was Burdened With a Lingering Fear

The return of Orlando Magic’s prodigal son Dwight Howard was an emotional moment. One of the most talented players to have played for the team, Howard got emotional as he returned to the arena after more than a decade. Mixed with nostalgia and joy, there was also a bit of fear that struck the 8-time NBA All-Star when he stepped onto the arena last year. However, as one would assume, fans and his Orlando friends reciprocated the love for the massive contribution Howard made to the team.

During the conversation on his podcast, ‘Above the Rim with DH 12,’ the champ spoke about his experience reuniting with Magic after a decade last year. “Man I just want to say that that was the best feeling in the world seeing all my old friends and all up my family my Orlando Magic family it was really good to see that see the reception,” Howard said.

Talking about his fear, Howard said, “I didn’t know what to expect I didn’t think I thought I was going to get booed a lot yeah and I still was like I hope nobody boo cuz like let it go.”

After his ugly exit from the Magic in 2012, Howard returned to Orlando for a Los Angeles Lakers game one year later. However, fans didn’t give a great welcome to the Big Man. The entire crowd in Orlando booed at the 8-time All-Star. Back then, he handled the situation with grace. Naturally, he felt the same fear this time as well.  The champ also wanted his Orlando Magic jersey to get retired.

Dwight Howard made an unusual demand from the Orlando Magic

Only Howard’s social media followers are aware of how much the champ desires to return to the NBA. His numerous posts and personal statements reflect his desire. He still plays for international teams like those in the Philippines or more. However, Howard expressed a different sentiment when the Orlando Magic, breaking tradition, decided to retire Shaquille O’Neal’s jersey as their first. During the All-Stars podcast, Howard claimed that the Magic should have retired his jersey before.

“And how many years did Shaq play with Orlando? Four years. So that’s kind of crazy. I played there for nine years and what we did in Orlando — no offense to Shaq, he should have his jersey retired, but I should’ve been the first one to have his jersey retired,” Howard said.

While he is right about his argument regarding his status as one of the greatest Magic players who played for nine years for the team, his suggestion might not be right when it comes to O’Neal. The Big Aristotle played for four years with Magic. The Lakers and Heat have already retired his jersey numbers in 2013 and 2016. It was already time for the Magic to do so.

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