Dwight Howard, the former NBA center, isn't closing the door on a potential return to the league, inspired by the longevity of veterans like Al Horford and Taj Gibson.
In a recent post on X, Howard shared, “People like Taj Gibson & Al Horford is the reason I ain’t retired I want a farewell tour.”
This statement came on the heels of the Memphis Grizzlies signing Gibson to a two-year contract after moving Kyle Anderson to the Minnesota Timberwolves. At 40, Gibson wrapped up the 2024-25 season with the Charlotte Hornets, averaging 2.9 points and 3.2 rebounds in just over 11 minutes per game. His shooting stats were solid, with a 49.5% field goal percentage, an impressive 50% from beyond the arc, and 60% from the charity stripe.
Horford, 39, also secured a new contract this offseason with the Golden State Warriors-a two-year, $12 million deal with a player option for 2026-27. He's been a reliable presence, playing 21.2 minutes per game over 37 contests. His contributions include averages of eight points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.1 blocks, while shooting 43.1% from the field, 35.4% from three-point land, and an impressive 89.5% from the free-throw line.
Howard, now 39, last suited up in the NBA during the 2021-22 season with the Los Angeles Lakers. In his 60 appearances, he averaged 6.2 points and 5.9 rebounds, shooting 61.2% from the field and a notable 53.3% from three, albeit in limited attempts.
Drafted first overall by the Orlando Magic in 2004, Howard has built a Hall of Fame career over 18 seasons, highlighted by eight All-Star nods, three Defensive Player of the Year awards, and a trip to the NBA Finals with the Magic in 2009. He also captured an NBA title with the Lakers in the 2019-20 season.
Howard was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2025, joining a class that included Carmelo Anthony.
While Howard hasn't officially announced a comeback, his comments reflect a desire to emulate the enduring careers of Horford and Gibson, hinting at the possibility of a farewell tour in the NBA.