Dwight Howard isn’t closing the door on an NBA return just yet. The former star center recently took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share his thoughts, drawing inspiration from fellow veterans Al Horford and Taj Gibson. Howard posted, “People like Taj Gibson & Al Horford is the reason I ain’t retired I want a farewell tour.”
This comes on the heels of the Memphis Grizzlies signing Gibson to a two-year deal after moving Kyle Anderson to the Minnesota Timberwolves. At 40, Gibson played for the Charlotte Hornets last season, where he averaged 2.9 points and 3.2 rebounds in just over 11 minutes per game. His shooting stats were notable, with a 49.5% field goal percentage, 50% from beyond the arc, and 60% from the line.
Meanwhile, Horford, at 39, inked a two-year, $12 million contract with the Golden State Warriors, which includes a player option for the 2026-27 season. He’s been a steady contributor, logging 21.2 minutes per game over 37 appearances. Horford is averaging eight points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.1 blocks, with shooting splits of 43.1% from the field, 35.4% from three, and an impressive 89.5% from the free-throw line.
Howard, now 39, last played in the NBA during the 2021-22 season with the Los Angeles Lakers. Over 60 games, he posted averages of 6.2 points and 5.9 rebounds, shooting 61.2% from the field and making 53.3% of his rare three-point attempts.
A former No. 1 overall pick by the Orlando Magic in 2004, Howard’s career is nothing short of legendary. With eight All-Star appearances, three Defensive Player of the Year awards, and a trip to the 2009 NBA Finals with the Magic, he’s left an indelible mark on the game. Howard also captured an NBA championship with the Lakers in the 2019-20 season and was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2025 alongside Carmelo Anthony.
While Howard hasn’t officially announced a comeback, his recent comments hint at a desire to follow in the footsteps of Horford and Gibson, possibly eyeing a farewell tour in the league. It’s clear he’s still motivated and inspired by the longevity of his peers.