It was quite a challenge for Dwight Howard and his dance partner, Daniella Karagach. The pro-dancer-choreographer had even traveled to New York to ensure they could practice together. Finally, the duo found new hope and encouragement as they earned one of Dancing With The Star’s most important achievements. Both turned emotional as the former NBA player opened up about the hard work that went into their stunning performance, which impressed the judges on the show.

Speaking of manifestation and their hard work, Howard said, “We cried a lot because all week we’ve been talking about manifestation and how powerful words are. And I would say we brought a lot. And I said to her the other day that, wouldn’t it be nice if this is our best dance ever? That’s the only thing on my mind every day. And I kept saying it today.” Karagach nodded, agreeing with Howard. 

The spooky dance performances for Halloween at the DWTS turned out to be great for the duo. The two performed a contemporary dance in “Ring Around The Rosie” by District 78. The ex-NBA player was seen with an all-black outfit while Karagach rocked an off-white fit for the performance. 

Impressed by their dance, one of the judges, Carrie Ann Inaba, gave them a score of 10, while the other two judges went with 9, bringing their total to 28 out of 30 points. In fact, it was the first 10 they got this season. There was a dance-off between the pairs. So, Howard and Karagach not only had to do their best, but they also had to beat their competitors as well. And they did.

That is sure a moment to take a step back and see how much they struggled it took to reach this point.

Dwight Howard and Danielle Karagach recalled their struggles in practice 

Karagach is a pro dancer. Out of all the rules, a properly scheduled rehearsal is probably what she hopes for most from her dance partner. Unfortunately, that’s exactly where Howard had issues. He had to be in New York for a legal case.

The former Orlando Magic star was reportedly cheated out of $7 million. Howard had been investing the money to buy the Atlanta Dream WNBA team but ended up being deceived. Due to the ongoing legal case, Howard’s presence in New York was essential. So, Karagach traveled there to ensure they could rehearse for the show. These constant issues were also troubling the pro dancer. 

“It was so much in so little time and usually what happens is that I get to plan on my choreo and if something doesn’t work I can change it and I think I started developing anxiety,” Karagach explained. However, the two worked hard. They managed to get 22 out of 30 while performing on When Can I See You Again? 

It’s understandable why earning their first 10 was so emotional for the two.