Shaquille O’Neal, widely regarded by many as the greatest center in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> history, dominated basketball for years with his unparalleled presence on the court. Now retired at 52, O’Neal found himself the subject of an unexpected challenge from a former Los Angeles Lakers player, who proposed a boxing match in the style of the Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul spectacle. However, Shaq dismissed the offer with a sharp response, opting instead for a hypothetical showdown against NFL legend Rob Gronkowski.



“Shaq, wassup? Let’s make bread,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dwight-howard">Dwight Howard</a> wrote on X (formerly Twitter), accompanying his message with a boxing glove emoji and a laughing face, playfully challenging Shaquille to a duel. While the tone of Howard’s message suggested it was a joke, Shaq’s response took many by surprise.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/shaquille-oneal">O’Neal</a> dismissed the challenge with a cutting remark. “Gotta have more than one ring to get in the ring with me. I’ll stick with a real champion like Rob Gronkowski,” he replied, taking a jab at Howard’s NBA career and suggesting he wasn’t a worthy opponent.



The mention of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/Rob-Gronkowski">Rob Gronkowski</a> was no coincidence. Shaq and the former New England Patriots tight end had crossed paths during the Jake Paul-Mike Tyson fight, where Gronkowski floated the idea of a boxing showdown between the two legends, pitting the NBA against the NFL.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241119_BUS_276126_Rob-Gronkowski-1-1024x576_b41fdaa9.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Rob Gronkowski" class="wp-image-242698" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/09/Rob-Gronkowski-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/09/Rob-Gronkowski-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/09/Rob-Gronkowski-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/09/Rob-Gronkowski-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/09/Rob-Gronkowski-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Rob Gronkowski #87 of the New England Patriots looks on in the first half against the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High on January 24, 2016 in Denver, Colorado.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Shaquille O’Neal leans on his NBA legacy</h2>



While the exchange between Shaquille O’Neal and Dwight Howard carried a playful tone, O’Neal’s response wasn’t entirely baseless. Shaq highlighted his four NBA championship rings—three consecutive titles with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> and one with the Miami Heat—as the benchmark for selecting a potential boxing rival.



In contrast, Dwight Howard, despite an impressive nearly 20-year NBA career, doesn’t quite measure up to O’Neal’s legacy. The biggest difference lies in their championship resumes: Howard has just one title, won with the Lakers in 2020, where his role was far less significant compared to Shaq’s dominance during his prime.


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<h2>Gronkowski meets the standard</h2>



Unlike Howard, Rob Gronkowski fits the criteria Shaq values in a potential opponent. The former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> tight end is a four-time Super Bowl champion, winning in 2014, 2017, and 2018 with the New England Patriots, and again in 2020 with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His decorated NFL career mirrors O’Neal’s dominance in the NBA, making him an opponent Shaq deems worthy.



Despite the entertaining back-and-forth, the idea of Shaq stepping into the boxing ring remains firmly hypothetical. Still, the thought of a 7’1″ O’Neal facing off against the 6’6″ Gronkowski is an intriguing spectacle fans would love to see.

NBA News: Shaq O'Neal snubs former Lakers player, picks NFL legend Rob Gronkowski as boxing rival

NBA News: Shaq O&#039;Neal makes something clear about LeBron and Bronny playing together for the Lakers

NBA News: Shaquille O&#039;Neal reveals his real opinion on former Lakers teammate Kobe Bryant

NBA News: Shaq O'Neal snubs former Lakers player, picks NFL legend Rob Gronkowski as boxing rival - Bolavip US

miniaturas

The debate over the greatest basketball player of all time often centers on two legendary figures: LeBron James and Michael Jordan. However, there are other players who deserve consideration in the GOAT conversation, and one name that frequently comes up is the late <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kobe-bryant">Kobe Bryant</a>. Former NBA star Dwight Howard recently added fuel to the debate by claiming that the “Black Mamba” was better than Jordan.



In 2012, Bryant and Howard teamed up for the first time on the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a>, joining forces as two of the league’s top players. The pairing came with high expectations, but the duo fell short of delivering on the court. “It was tough playing with Kobe,” Howard admitted. “Everyone expected us to be the next Kobe and Shaq, but I didn’t even want to go to the Lakers.”



During an appearance on the “Gil’s Arena” podcast, hosted by former NBA player Gilbert Arenas, Howard doubled down on his belief that Bryant was superior to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan">Jordan</a>. “I think Kobe [Bryant is] better than [Michael Jordan] skill-wise. He took everything Jordan did and multiplied it. He did it better,” Howard stated.



Arenas quickly pushed back, arguing that Kobe wasn’t on Jordan’s level during his prime years between 1983 and 1993. But <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dwight-howard">Howard</a> contended that the version of Jordan Bryant was able to emulate and improve upon was the one who played during his second stint with the Lakers from 1995 to 1998, suggesting that Jordan’s early career wasn’t as dominant.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240901_BUS_227981_kobe-bryant-1-1024x576_4c642ee8.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-227995" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/09/kobe-bryant-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/09/kobe-bryant-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/09/kobe-bryant-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/09/kobe-bryant-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/09/kobe-bryant-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Dwight Howard #12 of the Los Angeles Lakers is congratulated by teammate Kobe Bryant #24 of the Los Angeles Lakers against the Boston Celtics. Jared Wickerham/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Dwight Howard blames Rob Pelinka for breaking up 2020 Lakers team</h2>



Dwight Howard took a shot at Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka, blaming him for dismantling the 2020 championship–winning team led by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a>. Speaking on his podcast, “Above The Rim with DH12,” Howard expressed his frustration, suggesting that if the team had stayed together, they could have won another title.


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“After we won, they started tweaking the roster,” Howard said. “I’mma tell you who it was – Rob Pelinka, man. God, Rob, why did you do that to us, man? Rob, come on, man.”



Howard continued, “I still love you, Rob, but dang, man. We had the squad, bro. Even if we ran it back, we could have run it back. We would have been healthier for the next year.” His comments reflect the sentiments of many Lakers fans who believe the team’s potential for a repeat was derailed by unnecessary changes to the roster.


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Former LeBron James teammate on Lakers claims Kobe Bryant was better than Michael Jordan

Former LeBron James teammate on Lakers claims Kobe Bryant was better than Michael Jordan - Bolavip US

Dwight Howard has the privilege of playing with two of the greatest players in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> history, although with different results. His first stint with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> wasn’t exactly a good one, but he came back later in his career and got the job done.



The former All-Star big man crashed heads with Kobe Bryant, leaving as a free agent after just one season. Then, he bounced around the league after leaving the Houston Rockets, and had to come back to salvage his career in L.A.



That time, he shared the floor with<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james"> LeBron James</a>, and while he wasn’t a star anymore, he still played a big role in a championship win. With that in mind, he took some time to compare both stars.



<h2>Dwight Howard Compares Kobe And LeBron</h2>



“They have this presence, and when Kobe walks into the room or LeBron walks into the room, their presence is there and you can feel it,” Howard said on The OGs Podcast. “Kobe was more so like a silent killer. He didn’t really talk too much. LeBron loves to have fun, he wants to make jokes, but when he gets on the court you know he can turn that switch, it’s crazy to watch.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240509_BUS_124943_Dwight-Howard-1-1024x576_f72d5a6f.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-67002" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Dwight-Howard-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Dwight-Howard-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Dwight-Howard-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Dwight-Howard-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Dwight-Howard-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Dwight Howard</figcaption></figure>



Howard later pointed out their demeanor and how they took different approaches when they were on the court, with LeBron being more of a strategist, and Kobe being a stronger presence:



“The mental aspect of it, LeBron is doing all the plays he’s like the coach, and Kobe’s like give me the ball and I’m going to handle it, and I think those are the two differences,” Howard continued.



<h2>Howard Didn’t Want To Play For The Lakers</h2>



Ironically, Howard never even wanted to take his talents to Southern California. Apparently, he told the Orlando Magic that he didn’t want to be traded there to begin with:



“At the time, I had actually told the Magic the one place I didn’t want to go was the Lakers,” Howard admitted. “It was no offense to the Lakers fans or anything like that but we had just lost in the finals to the Lakers and I’m like man, I want to beat Kobe. I want to beat the Lakers, not go join the Lakers.”






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That’s just how things work out in this business at times. And while he didn’t find much success in his first stint, he was able to redeem himself and walk away with the championship he always deserved.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="663cce014690f38576751e77" data-title="Who was a better leader?" data-options="2"></div>

LeBron James or Kobe Bryant? Lakers star reveals their biggest difference

LeBron James says he\&#039;s a victim of the Lakers\&#039; situation

NBA Rumors: Lakers to figure out Darvin Ham replacement without LeBron James

NBA: Dwight Howard reveals the biggest difference between LeBron and Kobe - Bolavip US

Former teammate reveals the difference between Kobe and LeBron

Dwight Howard reveals the biggest difference between LeBron and Kobe

Former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/orlando-magic" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orlando Magic </a>and<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Los Angeles Lakers</a> star <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dwight-howard" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dwight Howard </a>is facing some strong accusations right now. Months after the news broke of him having an alleged sexual encounter with a man he met on Instagram, the said man is now suing him for alleged sexual assault and battery.



The man, named Stephen Harper, claims that what started as a consensual virtual relationship in which they exchanged texts, pictures, and videos of sexual and explicit nature took a sudden turn upon meeting the<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> NBA</a> champion.



Per court documents, Howard surprised Harper by bringing out another man dressed as a woman, forcing him to have a threesome with him. Howard hasn’t made any public comments about the matter, but he did share a video on TikTok mocking his haters because of this.



Now, one of Howard’s attorneys, Justin Bailey, talked to ESPN about the situation. He confirmed that his client indeed had an encounter with Harper, but stated that it was all consensual.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Dwight Howard responds to the haters <a href="https://t.co/l7eX7MeljK">pic.twitter.com/l7eX7MeljK</a>— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheDunkCentral/status/1717344784912658756?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h2>Dwight Howard’s Attorney Says It Was All Consensual</h2>



“What was a private consensual encounter was made public for profit and Mr. Howard looks forward to bringing the truth to light in a court of law,” Bailey said. “The allegations against Mr. Howard are contested. Mr. Howard intends to present the truth. The truth is Mr. Howard blocked Mr. Harper on social media and then was confronted with two options — pay to protect his reputation or have a fabricated story made public.” 



The attorney states that Harper is only looking for profit, which is why the former Defensive Player of the Year didn’t hesitate teo trust the justice system, even knowing how this could affect his reputation:



“Despite being an easy target due to the subject matter and his status as a celebrity, Mr. Howard chose to trust in the justice system and will rely on all future court filings to speak for themselves,” he added.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20231026_BUS_80365_Dwight-Howard-1-1024x576.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-67002" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Dwight-Howard-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Dwight-Howard-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Dwight-Howard-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Dwight-Howard-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Dwight-Howard-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure></div><figcaption>Dwight Howard</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Stephen A. Smith Claims NBA Teams Knew About This</h2>



Howard had been trying to get back to the NBA, and he even worked out with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden State Warriors</a>, among other teams. That’s why ESPN pundit Stephen A. Smith believes that they didn’t sign him, as they may have known about these accusations:



“That’s why teams didn’t want you,” Smith said on his podcast. “Whether they would admit it or not, and I’m not going to mention teams because I don’t want to incriminate anybody or accuse anybody or something I simply don’t know, I’m guessing. But I’m saying is – that’s the first thought that came to my mind: that’s why they don’t want him.”


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At the end of the day, Howard has every right to do whatever he pleases in the confines of his bedroom — as long as it’s all consensual. His reputation around the league had already taken multiple hits throughout the course of his career, but it had nothing to do with his sexuality. For now, it seems like we’ll just have to wait and see how this delicate situation unfolds.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="653aa822f2b571abd7e4643b" data-title="Will Howard make it back to the NBA?" data-options="2"></div>

Dwight Howard's attorney sheds light on latest accusations

Dwight Howard's attorney sheds light on latest accusations - Bolavip US

destacadas

Over the past couple of weeks, several <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>insiders talked about the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden State Warriors’</a> interest in signing veteran big man <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dwight-howard" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dwight Howard</a>, and it seemed like a sure thing.



Howard reportedly had some very positive workouts and interviews with the team. Even the veterans had signed off on his arrival, which is why it was shocking to know that they weren’t going to bring him in.



Now, a report by Kendra Andrews of ESPN sheds some light on the reason why the Warriors decided not to sign the former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> star, and it had nothing to do with basketball.



<h2>Warriors Thought Dwight Howard Would Be A Distraction</h2>



“A source told ESPN that one important piece of criteria for anyone looking to make the roster is someone who will help them build off their already established connectivity — someone who won’t be a distraction and someone happy to be the final member of the team,” Andrews reported.



Dwight Howard does have a reputation for being a bit of a character, but he had been way more mature in his final couple of stints in the league. Still, it’s normal to see the Warriors not wanting to take any risks.


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Howard is no longer the defensive stalwart he used to be in his heyday. Then again, he could still give a contending team some solid minutes off the bench, assuming they’re willing to give him another chance.

The reason Warriors didn't sign Dwight Howard after positive workouts

The reason Warriors didn't sign Dwight Howard after positive workouts - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden State Warriors </a>still have an open roster spot. The upcoming <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>season is just around the corner, and the front office wants another reinforcement alongside <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/stephen-curry" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stephen Curry.</a>



The Warriors have worked out multiple veterans and former members of the organization, but to no avail. Recently, it all pointed out at them signing Dwight Howard.



However, even though someone leaked that the process went well and his signing was imminent, it now seems like they won’t make a run at the former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> star at all.



<h2>Warriors Won’t Sign Dwight Howard</h2>



“The Warriors are not expected to sign Dwight Howard or another veteran center ahead of training camp, sources tell me,” reported Shams Charania of The Athletic.



Howard spent last season playing overseas and trolling former NBA colleagues, daring them to join him in Taiwan. However, he’s still looking forward to getting another chance in the league.


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The Warriors, on the other hand, might want to look at someone who’s a better fit for their current style of play, but it seems like Howard could’ve given them some positive minutes off the bench.

Warriors make final decision about Dwight Howard

Warriors make final decision about Dwight Howard - Bolavip US

It’s almost impossible to keep a secret in the social media <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> era. Reporters and beat writers often get a scoop and rush to get it out there, as happened with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dwight-howard" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dwight Howard’s </a>workout with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden State Warriors.</a>



A report by Jason Dumas stated that Howard had already finished his workouts with the team, adding that things went well and that the team veterans had actually agreed to bring him in.



That’s why former Defensive Player of the Year <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/draymond-green" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Draymond Green</a> took to Twitter to rip NBA media for leaking everything, all but confirming that Dumas’ report was right on point.



<h2>Draymond Green Hates Leaked Information</h2>



“One day, one day, everything won’t leak,” Green tweeted. “One day. Good for you btw Jason. But one day, EVERYTHING won’t leak. I have a dream.”



Of course, it must be frustrating to see that all these things get leaked, but at least, this was a positive leak, as opposed to what happened between him and Jordan Poole last season.


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Howard will give the Warriors a different profile. He may not be the defensive superstar he used to be in his prime, but he can still give them some valuable minutes and rim protection off the bench.

Draymond Green goes at NBA reporter over Dwight Howard leaked report

Draymond Green goes at NBA reporter over Dwight Howard leaked report - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden State Warriors</a> may have filled their <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> veteran quota by acquiring <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chris-paul" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chris Paul</a>. Still, Steve Kerr’s team continues to dig deep into the market to try and find more reinforcements.



The Dubs are fresh off a heartbreaking end to the season, and they’ve heard all the noise about them being done already. We’ve seen how this story ends before, yet his critics can’t seem to learn.



Recently, the Warriors made the rounds for working out former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles </a>Lakers star Dwight Howard. However, as much as he’d love to be back in the league, he recently admitted that team may not be for him.



<h2>Dwight Howard Isn’t So Sure About The Warriors</h2>



“I don’t think they want my style,” Howard said on My Expert Opinion. “Not that I can’t play or do what is needed. But why would they go get a Dwight Howard when they can go get a young player that maybe has no name, that’s not a risk.”



Of course, that was said before he actually got a chance to work out for them, so maybe he’s changed his mind already. He’s been looking forward to getting another shot at the league, and he won’t turn it down.


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For now, however, there’s nothing imminent about potentially signing the former Defensive Player of the Year, but there’s no doubt that they could use his interior presence on both ends of the floor.

Dwight Howard admits he's not a good fit for the Warriors

Dwight Howard admits he's not a good fit for the Warriors - Bolavip US

Dwight Howard was never the most mature player in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA,</a> but there was a time when he was one of the most dominant. His days with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/orlando-magic" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Orlando Magic</a> shouldn’t be overlooked.



Howard infuriated pretty much every fan base he played for, and he burned a lot of bridges throughout the course of his career. It wasn’t until the final stage that he was able to redeem himself.



Even so, the former Defensive Player of the Year and NBA champion with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> holds a special place in his heart for Orlando, and he admitted he would love to retire with the Magic.



<h2>Dwight Howard Wants To Retire In Orlando</h2>



“I really missed this beautiful city,” Howard said on social media. “I appreciate all the amazing moments that make this my home, despite the miscommunication or trials we’ve been through. I am grateful for my lessons and what they have taught me.”



“And I value them. Orlando I value you. I value the moments we had good and bad. Wins and losses. The s*** was still the best. Blue and white will always ignite,” he added.


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Whether the Magic will have any sort of interest in his services at this point remains to be seen. But there’s no doubt that they should retire his jersey once he’s done playing.

Dwight Howard has one petition before retirement

Dwight Howard has one petition before retirement - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> wanted to give <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kobe-bryant" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe Bryant</a> a chance to win another <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA </a>championship. They brought in Steve Nash and Dwight Howard, hoping to put together a superteam, but that wasn’t the case.



Injuries and poor chemistry derailed the Lakers‘ once-promising season, and Howard failed to live up to the standard and expectations. He ended up leaving on bad terms after just one season.



Now, looking back, the former Defensive Player of the Year acknowledged he made a mistake by leaving to join the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-rockets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Houston Rockets</a>, stating that he thought James Harden was like a young Kobe.



<h2>Dwight Howard Thought James Harden Was Like A Young Kobe</h2>



“I looked at him [James Harden] like a younger version of Kobe,” Howard said. “I don’t know why I was thinking that. No disrespect to James, but I was thinking that at the time that me, and James could be a new version of Kobe and Shaq— The Lakers’ decision was solely based on I felt like me and James would have been better at the time than me and Kobe.”



“If I would’ve sat down and really thought about my decisions without being in my emotions, I probably would’ve stayed in LA,” Superman added.


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Needless to say, things didn’t work out the way Howard expected. At least he got a chance to redeem himself in the eyes of Lakers fans, helping them win a ring in 20202.

Dwight Howard blames James Harden for leaving Kobe and the Lakers - Bolavip US

Dwight Howard blames James Harden for leaving Kobe and the Lakers

Some fans of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> weren’t thrilled to know that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> was going to join the team. Even if they had never faced him in the Finals, some felt like rooting for him was like betraying <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kobe-bryant" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe Bryant.</a>



Their allegiance to Kobe ran deep, and still does to this day. And, as great as both are in their crafts, it’s safe to say that they couldn’t be more different in terms of their leadership.



That’s why former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> star Dwight Howard, who had the privilege to play with both of them in his two stints with the Lakers, shed some light on the differences between the two.



<h2>Dwight Howard Reveals The Difference Between Kobe Bryant And LeBron James</h2>



“LeBron’s almost at like somebody from the south side of Georgia,” Howard said on the My Expert Opinion podcast. “We actin’ kind of like twins. Joking, silly, have a good time. We get on the court, we still gonna have a good time but we’re gonna dominate.”



“Kobe, he not bullsh*tting with nobody. He might not come to the locker room to talk. So he’s just gonna walk all the way past us,” the former Defensive Player of the Year added.


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Notably, Howard didn’t get along that well with Kobe, as opposed to LeBron. That just shows there are multiple ways to be a leader and an inspiration in this game, and both achieved legendary status in their own way.



<h2>NBA Rumors: Sixers could land a stellar defender at a reasonable price</h2>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia 76ers</a> have knocked on the door of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> championship contention for quite a while, but not even pairing up <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/james-harden" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">James Harden</a> with Joel Embiid has been enough to get over the hump.



Harden is reportedly looking to force his way out to play for the Los Angeles Clippers, but the latter don’t seem to be that serious about making a big offer for him.



With that in mind, Bleacher Report’s NBA staff came up with a very interesting trade idea. Given that Harden is unlikely to be traded, they could ramp up their defense with a trade for a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/houston-rockets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Houston Rockets </a>role player.



<h2>NBA Rumors: Sixers Could Trade For Jae’Sean Tate</h2>



(Via Bleacher Report)



“Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Jae’Sean Tate



Houston Rockets Receive: Danuel House Jr., Furkan Korkmaz, Philadelphia’s 2027 second-round pick, Portland’s 2029 second-round pick



Tate’s shaky outside shot renders him less than plug-and-play, but he’s an excellent value proposition. Knee and ankle injuries limited him to 31 games last season, and he has since toppled down the Rockets’ depth chart following the arrivals of Dillon Brooks, Amen Thompson, Fred VanVleet and Cam Whitmore, not to mention the emergence of Tari Eason.



Landing Tate for two seconds and two fringe-rotation players is (inter)stellar business. He brings defensive pressure up and down the perimeter, some spot ball-handling and shot better than 53 percent on drives last season.”


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While this might not be the most exciting transaction, it could end up having a major impact, as the Sixers already have more than enough scoring and could use more stoppers right now.

Dwight Howard gets real on the LeBron James vs. Kobe Bryant debate - Bolavip US

Dwight Howard gets real on the LeBron James vs. Kobe Bryant debate

Former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Lakers</a> star <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-draft-top-5-players-drafted-straight-out-of-high-school-20201106-0016.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dwight Howard</a> is facing some serious turmoil — again. For the second time in the past five years, the former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> champion has been exposed and allegedly outed, but this time it’s way more serious.



A man called Stephen Harper has filed a lawsuit for assault, battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and false imprisonment after Howard allegedly forced him to have a threesome with him and a third person dressed as a kitty.



Harper reportedly reached out to Howard via Instagram in 2021. He exchanged texts, pictures, and personal information with the former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia 76ers</a> big man, and eventually agreed to meet. Notably, Radar Online also leaked the alleged DMs between both parties, which were filed as evidence in the lawsuit.



<h2>Dwight Howard Facing Sexual Assault Lawsuit</h2>



“Defendant stood up (towering over Mr. Harper), grabbed Mr. Harper by the thighs, forcibly removed Mr. Harper’s underwear, held Mr. Harper down, and performed nonconsensual oral sex on Mr. Harper,” the suit read. “Mr. Harper was in fear of imminent bodily harm when he was pinned down and forced to remain in place while Defendant continued to sexually assault him.”



“The suit alleged, once there, Kitty ‘anally penetrated’ Howard while Howard grabbed his head and shoved his penis into Harper’s mouth,” added Radar Online.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="513" height="1024" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230721_BUS_33040_d1-513x1024.webp&amp;width=513&amp;height=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-33049" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/d1-513x1024.jpg 513w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/d1-150x300.jpg 150w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/d1.jpg 643w" sizes="(max-width: 513px) 100vw, 513px"></figure></div><figcaption>via Radar Online</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="507" height="1024" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230721_BUS_33040_d2-507x1024.webp&amp;width=507&amp;height=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-33050" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/d2-507x1024.jpg 507w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/d2-149x300.jpg 149w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/d2.jpg 636w" sizes="(max-width: 507px) 100vw, 507px"></figure></div><figcaption>via Radar Online</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="513" height="1024" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230721_BUS_33040_d1-513x1024.webp&amp;width=513&amp;height=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-33049" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/d1-513x1024.jpg 513w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/d1-150x300.jpg 150w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/d1.jpg 643w" sizes="(max-width: 513px) 100vw, 513px"></figure></div><figcaption>via Radar Online</figcaption></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="380" height="380" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230721_BUS_33040_d4.webp&amp;width=380&amp;height=380" alt="" class="wp-image-33052" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/d4.jpg 380w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/d4-300x300.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/d4-150x150.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 380px) 100vw, 380px"></figure></div><figcaption>via Radar Online</figcaption></figure>


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Back in 2018, gay man Masin Elije also claimed that Howard had a reputation for secretly dating gay and transgender men, to which Howard denied the accusations. Now, he has yet to comment on this delicate situation.

Man sues Dwight Howard for alleged sexual assault after being forced to have a threesome, reveals DMs - Bolavip US

Man sues Dwight Howard for alleged sexual assault after being forced to have a threesome, reveals DMs

The main topic in the league right now is of course the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/nba-finals">NBA Finals</a>. So far, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/have-the-denver-nuggets-ever-been-to-the-nba-finals-20230521-BUS-2811.html">Denver Nuggets</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-heat">Miami Heat</a> are 1-1 in the series that will determine the successor of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors">Golden State Warriors</a> as the champion.



That’s a reality that Dwight Howard is watching from very far away. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-draft-lottery-who-has-the-first-overall-pick-in-the-2023-nba-draft-20230517-BUS-1499.html">The former 1st overall pick</a> had a great first half of his career, including individual achievements like being the first player ever to win three consecutive Defensive Player of the Year awards.


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Howard was finally able to win a ring in the 2019-2020 season. That was the covid-shortened season that saw the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> win led by <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a>. He is now playing in Taiwan, but he thinks he could still play in the NBA. He even chose one specific team he’d like to play for.



<h2>Dwight Howard picks the team he wants to play for</h2>



His recent performances came playing for the Taoyuan Leopards of the Taiwanese league. He is 37 years old, although the level of competition has him dominating with averages of 23 points and 16 rebounds per game. The gap between the leagues is huge, but the center believes there is a team in the Western Conference he could help win a ring.



“I’m not retired from the NBA just yet. I would love to help the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/sacramento-kings-t100706">Sacramento Kings</a> contend for a title. Even though I believe their team is pretty much set. I like Mike Brown. I think he’s an amazing coach, and what he accomplished this year was very impressive”, Howard said in an interview with Mark Haynes of The Sacramento Observer.



The Kings are probably not going to pursue Howard considering they have a contending roster, although he’s still interested in returning to the best league in the world. Howard also agrees with the notion that their future is bright because they have a young core ready to take the next step. “I think the Kings will continue to get better with experience”, Howard said on their youth.

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Dwight Howard claims he could help a team from the West win the title - Bolavip US

Dwight Howard claims he could help a team from the West win the title

Sometimes it can be hard for an athlete not to miss the good old days. Winning titles, receiving love from the fans and being praised by the media are great things an <a href="https:\/\/bolavip.com/en/topic/nba">NBA</a> player can experience, but they don’t always last forever.



If not, just ask Dwight Howard. Though he still found a way to make headlines <a href="https:\/\/bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-Rumors-Dwight-Howard-and-stars-playing-overseas-that-could-make-a-comeback-20221223-0017.html">from Taiwan</a>, he struggled to find a place in the league lately. <a href="https:\/\/bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-draft-top-5-players-drafted-straight-out-of-high-school-20201106-0016.html">Back in the day</a>, any team would have taken him.



Unfortunately, those days are gone, and now he misses them. In an interview with Shams Charania, Howard admitted he would love to be back in the NBA and even try to win another ring. 



<h2>Dwight Howard wishes NBA return</h2>



“I would love to come back to play in the NBA,” Howard said. “I do enjoy playing international basketball. Just the experience is one of a kind. It’s a different type of grind of being in the NBA, and I had a chance to experience it. 



“But I would love to finish off my career with an NBA team, hopefully, win an NBA championship. But if not, I enjoyed playing basketball for so long, and I’m just thankful that I’ve had the opportunity to travel and play in the NBA. It’s the best life.”



Howard won a championship with the <a href="https:\/\/bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Los Angeles Lakers</a> in the 2020 bubble. It’s been a while since then, but he’s still active and hoping to be part of a championship team again.

Former NBA champion with Lakers wants another chance in the league - Bolavip US

Former NBA champion with Lakers wants another chance in the league

It’s been a while since <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-Rumors-Dwight-Howard-and-stars-playing-overseas-that-could-make-a-comeback-20221223-0017.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dwight Howard</a> was considered a superstar in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/Ja-Morant-slapped-with-even-more-bizarre-accusations-20230302-0005.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">National Basketball Association.</a> Despite being a future first-ballot <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/NBA-News-Kevin-Durant-gets-the-ultimate-praise-from-Hall-of-Famer-20230109-0009.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hall of Famer,</a> he couldn’t even get a deal for this season.
The former Defensive Player of the Year had to settle for a role in the Taiwanese league, where he’s excelled from day one, unsurprisingly. But he hasn’t given up on his NBA career, and he’d go back to the States in the blink of an eye.
An NBA comeback seems quite unlikely <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba/nba-rumors-dwight-howard-and-former-superstars-still-unsigned-20221017-0005.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">for Howard</a> at this point, and he’s not exactly a fan favorite. However, the playoffs are just around the corner, and several teams could use a physical presence in the restricted area.
<h2>NBA Rumors: 3 Teams That Should Sign Dwight Howard</h2>
<h3>3. Washington Wizards</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230305_BUS_215433_dwight_howard_x3x.jpg_22993414_4e041dbe.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Going back to D.C.— Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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Dwight Howard’s first stint with the Washington Wizards wasn’t exactly successful. But they need to bring in more experience if they intend to make a late-season push at a spot in the playoffs.
Daniel Gafford is a solid defender, but he’s often out of position when it comes to grabbing rebounds. And with Kristaps Porzingis missing time often, Howard would be a nice insurance policy.
<h3>2. Golden State Warriors</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230305_BUS_215433_dwight_howard_x2x.jpg_22993414_1ae47e4c.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> A veteran in the Bay— Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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The Golden State Warriors decided to just give up and pulled the plug on James Wiseman, sending him to the Detroit Pistons. And while that was the right move, it left a need for a backup big man.
Kevon Looney has earned every single minute of playing time he could get, but injuries happen. Howard could give them some solid 12 or 15 minutes as a dominant presence on both ends of the glass.
<h3>1. Dallas Mavericks</h3>
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<figure class="image"> <figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" data-height="413" data-width="740" data-size="w:740,h:413" hspace="5" vspace="5" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20230305_BUS_215433_dwight_howard_x1x.jpg_22993414_f194ee42.webp&amp;width=740&amp;height=413" width="740" height="413"></figure><figcaption> Teaming up with Doncic— Getty Images </figcaption></figure>
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And last but not least, we find a team that could be desperate enough to make a run at Dwight Howard at this point in his career. The Dallas Mavericks cannot box out to save their lives, so it’s worth the risk.
The Mavs are a very bad defensive team since losing Doriann Finey-Smith, and Christian Wood has never been much of a rim protector. So, even if he’s no longer a DPOY-caliber player, Howard would be an upgrade there.