“I tried to be the next. But hopefully, another basketball representative from the WNBA or NBA can win it one season.” After missing out on the MirrorBall trophy alongside pro partner Daniella Karagach, Dwight Howard urged other basketball athletes to join the show. And this time, he even suggested two names that would please her partner. Mind you, it’s not because of their superstar stature.

“I would say maybe Chris Paul maybe being good at dancing with the stars. He’s a point guard, someone with steps. He know how to count steps and stuff like that. And he’s not as tall, he’s like 6’2.” The former NBA champion with her dancing partner spoke to the host Joe Vulpis. Karagach revealed she didn’t know who Chris Paul was, but agreed because she would be comfortable dancing with a six-foot-two athlete.

Later DH12 added another point guard’s name, “Stephen Curry.” This conversation came about when the host asked, “If you were to pass the torch to another athlete and partner with Daniella, who would it be?” Just hearing this question, Daniella Karagach, asked the former Lakers star, “Oh God! Please, no one over seven feet, please.”

Before disclosing his two candidates, Dwight Howard explained his thought process behind those names. “I wouldn’t pick somebody that was super tall. Because I understand how difficult it was for her to move around me. I got rhythm, so it probably be a little difficult with some people who might not have as much rhythm,” via Lightweights Podcast. Further, he added how Karagach had to take two steps to cover up the size disadvantage.

That was also evident during their conversation on the podcast when the Emmy-nominated choreographer explained that anyone above 5’3 is “tall.” Because she indeed is 5’3 and Dwight Howard is six-foot-ten. That’s why he ended up with a witty reply. “On Earth 5’3 is short.”

Dwight Howard and Daniella Karagach struggled with height issues throughout DWTS

“Iman (Shumpert) was probably the tallest guy I’ve ever danced with but he’s the tallest guy I think I spent so much time with …” The pro dancer spoke about meeting the 3x DPOY for the first time in comparison with the former partner Iman Shumpert. The former duo won the DWTS season 30, but meeting Dwight Howard was a “jaw-dropping experience.”

The former Lakers star is five inches taller than Shumpert. “Anything side by side works. Anything in frame is very difficult to do… We make it work.” This was one of the issues that Karagach had to work on throughout the season. And that’s why the pair survived till week 8 of the show.

But Dwight Howard is not going out without a fight. He has asked for another chance to fight for the Mirror ball. “It’s been one hell of a ride 😅 but know that if there is ever a redemption season I’ll be back ready to win with @daniellakaragach 🕺🏾” Will you be interested in seeing the former NBA champion fighting for it once again?