Dwight Howard and his journey are often forgotten. He was on track to be amongst the all-time rankings for centers in the NBA. He won three Defensive Player of the Year trophies in his first eight seasons. While he did have holes offensively, Dwight led the Orlando Magic to the 2009 NBA Finals. LeBron James who was one of the players Dwight eliminated that year has now helped Dwight win his first ring.

Dwight Howard’s critics always pointed at the fact he has never won a ring. In 2012, he decided to join Steve Nash and Kobe Bryant for a title. However, that experiment blew up and Dwight’s career entered a downward spiral. It is poetic that almost a decade later, he has reached the pinnacle of his career with the Lakers once again.

Howard was very emotional after this title win and put up a video of him crying with the NBA Championship on his lap.

Howard had a simple message after the win. While they may be a cliche, his are words to live by. Dwight said, “Never give up on your dreams. Just keep fighting, I swear to god, don’t ever give up on yourself.” Dwight himself is the living embodiment of his words.

Dwight Howard finally realizes his dream of becoming an NBA Champion

Dwight Howard exploded into the NBA after being the top pick in the 2004 Draft. 2020 was his 16th season in the NBA, but many wondered if this season would even be a possibility. After bouncing around the league in his last few seasons, Dwight signed a non-guaranteed minimum contract with the Lakers. It seemed like this may be his final chance at extending his NBA career.

Dwight was an explosive defensive presence off the bench, playing solid minutes and contributing at a high level. The biggest key for his success was a change in attitude. Howard started accepting games with DNPs and long bench minutes. Evidently, it was all worth it, as he is now an NBA Champion after being told for years that his run in the NBA might be over.