Dwight Howard isn’t ready to hang up his sneakers just yet.
The former Los Angeles Lakers center recently took to social media, making it clear that he's eager to return to the NBA and hopes for a proper farewell tour.
“People like Taj Gibson & Al Horford are the reason I haven’t retired,” Howard shared. “I want a farewell tour.”
This declaration came shortly after news broke that veteran center Taj Gibson had secured a new team. The Memphis Grizzlies, parting ways with forward Kyle Anderson, quickly filled the roster spot with Gibson.
At 40, Gibson is set to join the Grizzlies, having spent much of the 2025-2026 NBA season waiting for an opportunity. His career, which began in 2009, includes an impressive eight-year stint with the Chicago Bulls. He’s also played for Oklahoma City, Minnesota, New York, Detroit, Washington, and Charlotte.
Last season, Gibson suited up for the Hornets, appearing in 37 games and averaging 11.1 minutes. While his on-court time was limited, his veteran presence was invaluable to the young squad.
Howard, also 40, launched his NBA journey straight from high school in 2004 with the Orlando Magic. He spent his first eight seasons there before joining the Lakers in 2012. His career has taken him through Houston, Atlanta, Charlotte, and Washington, before returning to the Lakers as a backup center in 2019-2020.
During that season, Howard was instrumental in the Lakers’ 2020 NBA Championship run. He played two more seasons-one with the Philadelphia 76ers-and had another stint with the Lakers. His last NBA appearance was in the 2021-2022 season, where he averaged 6.2 points and 5.9 rebounds per game.
Despite his Hall of Fame-worthy career and some interest from contending teams, Howard hasn’t found a new home yet. But he’s not giving up hope, urging teams to reach out and give him a chance to cap off his storied career with a fitting farewell.