Dwight Howard not only joins the Nysmith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame but is also part of the inaugural Barott class.
Howard will be officially recognized as a member of the 2025 class on the Saturday of the Men’s College Basketball Final 4. According to ESPN’s Shamscharania, this was reported on Saturday night.
This announcement follows reports that former Knicks player Carmelo Anthony will be leading this year’s class.
Howard was selected first overall by the Magic in the 2004 NBA Draft and lived up to the expectations as the top pick with eight All-Star selections, eight All-NBA picks, and three Defensive Player of the Year awards.
He is also remembered for his performance in the 2008 Slam Dunk Contest where he wore a Superman cape to pay tribute to his nickname.
Throughout his career, Howard led the NBA in rebounding average five times.
With a total of 14,627 career rebounds, he ranks 10th in NBA history, and 11th when considering ABA players.
In 1,242 games, the Big Man averaged 15.7 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per contest.
Howard spent his initial eight years with the Magic before having brief periods with the Lakers, Rockets, Hornets, Hawks, 76ers, and Wizards.
In the 2019-20 season, he contributed to the Lakers’ victory, achieving his first and only championship in the NBA Finals.
He received votes for that season and secured the 9th place for Sixth Man of the Year.
Howard’s last NBA appearance was with the Lakers during the 2021-22 season.
