Dwight Howard, the NBA veteran, recently shared his insights on 'The OGs' podcast, revealing the toughest player he ever had to guard and expressing confidence in his ability to dominate Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama in the paint.
Reflecting on his formidable opponents throughout his career, Howard singled out Yao Ming as the most challenging player to defend against.
"Yao Ming. 7-5, shooting fadeaway, turnaround jump shot, Yao Ming was the hardest I'm really 6-9, 6-10 my shoulders make me 6-11. Yao was 7-4,7-5, 315 lbs, get to the middle hook shot you can't block it, face up jump shot pick and pop to the elbow, he's making that." (42:20)
Standing at an imposing 7 feet 5 inches tall, Yao possessed an array of offensive skills that made him a formidable force on the court.
Howard emphasized Yao's ability to shoot fadeaways, execute turnaround jump shots, and score with hook shots in the paint, making him virtually unstoppable. Despite Howard's own imposing stature at 6 feet 9 inches (which he humorously extended to 6 feet 11 inches due to his shoulders), he acknowledged the immense difficulty of guarding a player of Yao's size and skill.
Transitioning to a more contemporary perspective, Howard shifted the conversation to Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama.
"I would hit him in the chest make his shoulders clap game is over with after that all it took is two times. I'm telling you boom boom boom and he's going to the ground and then I got to deal with Pops."
"I'm busting Wemby up in the paint what are you talking about. He is an alien though I will say that." (43:30)
Despite acknowledging Wembanyama's talents and acknowledging him as a favorite player, Howard confidently asserted that he would dominate the young rookie in the paint.
With a bold declaration, Howard outlined his strategy of using his physicality to overpower Wembanyama, stating his intent to "hit him in the chest" and render him ineffective on the court. While acknowledging Wembanyama's unique abilities and describing him as an "alien," Howard expressed unwavering confidence in his own abilities to assert dominance in the paint.
Overall, Howard's remarks offer a fascinating glimpse into the mindset of a seasoned NBA veteran, reflecting on his past experiences guarding formidable opponents while expressing confidence in his ability to compete against emerging talents in the league.
Dwight Howard Wants To End His NBA Career With The Orlando Magic
Dwight Howard, the former NBA All-Star, expressed his desire to finish his illustrious career where it all began - with the Orlando Magic. Speaking on The OGs podcast, Howard reminisced about his time with the Magic, highlighting his six All-Star appearances and three Defensive Player of the Year awards during his tenure from 2004 to 2012.
"If I could go back with a team, I gotta go finish with the Magic. It's only right." (16:34)
Despite departing from Orlando under strained circumstances in 2012, Howard's affinity for the Magic remains strong. He emphasized the sentimental significance of returning to the franchise where he achieved significant success early in his career.
Following his departure from Orlando, Howard's career took him to various NBA teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers, Houston Rockets, and others. While he continued to make All-NBA and All-Star teams, injuries and challenges with team chemistry impacted his performance and reputation in subsequent years.
Now contemplating his basketball future, Howard's desire to return to the Magic reflects a longing to reconcile unfinished business and perhaps provide veteran leadership to the team's promising young talent. Despite past disagreements and tensions with the organization, Howard's sentiment underscores his appreciation for his time in Orlando and the potential for a meaningful reunion.
Furthermore, Howard's recent attendance at a Magic game suggests his continued connection to the franchise and his willingness to entertain the idea of returning to familiar territory.
As he mulls over his options for the latter stages of his career, a potential reunion with the Magic represents a fitting conclusion to Howard's NBA journey, allowing him to come full circle and leave a lasting legacy with the team where it all began
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