Still alive NBA aspirations, podcast appearances, and now a reality show — the workload can overwhelm anyone. Dwight Howard is no exception. And the former NBA star did not shy away from accepting that the recent time has been taking a toll on him.

The confession came in a video re-shared by D12 in his IG story. It featured the renowned choreographer Daniella Karagach asking Howard how this last week has been for him. “This week has been nerve wracking,” he said. Karagach hilariously captioned the IG video “Send help.” For those who are not aware, the two stars have paired for the 33rd season of the Dancing with the Stars.

Having first aired on September 17, this season includes 13 celebrities who will take the dance challenge. The first week was a little kinder to the celebs with no eliminations. But the stakes rose quickly in the second week, eliminating two pairs.

That’s why Howard has been giving it his all on the dance floor. After all, no one wants to be sent home this early. But there’s more to D12’s journey than just perfecting those dance steps. He revealed that his reason for joining the show was to inspire his son, Trey. The 8x All-Star wants to show Trey that with hard work and passion, anything is possible.

And guess what? It seems to be working! The former Orlando Magic star and Karagach are currently sitting pretty with the second-highest score. Just behind Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong (47 points). With a combined total of 44 points for the first two weeks, Howard’s hustle and drive seem to be paying off. However, even amid all of this, it’s not as if the 8x All-Star has not missed his first love — basketball.

Dwight Howard approaches New York Knicks with NBA aspirations

The New York Knicks recently made headlines with the blockbuster trade for Karl-Anthony Towns. But their roster still seems to have a hole at the backup center position. Enter Howard, who, despite being out of the league since 2022, hasn’t given up on his NBA comeback.

The 8x All-Star recently took to Instagram, expressing his interest in joining the Knicks. “I was just in New York & I kept hearing the Knicks need a backup,” he wrote on IG. Although Howard turns 39 later this year, he has managed to stay in shape. Thanks to his overseas basketball stints in Asian basketball scenario.

Now, he may have taken a brief detour from basketball to compete in the 33rd season of Dancing with the Stars. But he most likely will be ready to lace up his sneakers if the Knicks actually give him a call.

Stay tuned for more updates. Join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host, BG12, sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.