Former NBA star Dwight Howard reflected on his ongoing international basketball career during a promotional visit to Japan, explaining that stints in Taiwan and other countries have revitalized his passion for the sport as he approaches age 40.
Dwight Howard Shares Motivation Behind Global Playing Career in Japan
Dwight Howard arrived in Japan for the “MEET THE GAME CHANGERS” program hosted by NBA docomo, participating in youth exchanges and public appearances in late September. During media interviews in Tokyo, the eight-time NBA All-Star discussed his post-NBA career path, which has featured stops in Taiwan, the Philippines, Mongolia, and the BIG3 league, alongside a recent exhibition agreement in Georgia.
“I’ve been playing basketball for a long time, and I’m 40 now,” Howard said through event translation. “Things are different from when I was young, so now I want to enjoy life, take on new challenges, and visit different countries.”
Taiwan Stint Revitalizes Former Defensive Player of the Year
Howard spent time playing in Taiwan following his departure from the NBA, an experience he described as fulfilling a personal ambition dating back to his early professional days. Selected first overall in the 2004 NBA draft, Howard earned three consecutive NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards and won a title in 2020.
“For Taiwan, I wanted to keep an old promise,” Howard said, recalling an initial visit to the island nation at age 18 for league business. “When my career in the NBA was winding down and I felt a bit of sadness or regret, Taiwan gave me wings all over again.”
Evolution of Modern NBA Big Men and Toughest Matchups
Addressing the shifting tactics of the modern NBA, Howard noted that contemporary frontcourt players require more diverse skill sets than he did as a dominant paint protector.
“Today’s big men are involved in the ball so much more,” Howard observed, highlighting players like Nikola Jokic, Victor Wembanyama, Joel Embiid, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Rudy Gobert. “When I entered the league, a big man’s job was to run the floor, lean on opponents, and get easy baskets at the rim. Now, everyone initiates offense.”
When asked about the most difficult center he faced during his career, Howard pointed to Yao Ming. Standing 229 centimeters tall, the center presented unique challenges in the low post due to his strength and scoring repertoire.
“Yao Ming was something else,” Howard said. “At 229 centimeters, he was so strong you couldn’t move him. He established deep position and could hit jump hooks or turn-around fadeaways. Trying to beat Yao down low was really tough.”
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