Dwight Howard may have a lot of reasons to celebrate professionally, but his personal life has taken a hit ever since he exited the Orlando Bubble. The newly crowned champion is tackling accusations made by his 12-year-old son, who claimed that he is an absentee father. With that, Dwight has spoken up in self-defense.

A video of his son Braylon came out in which he was seen pleading with Dwight to talk to him and be more present. Dwight’s history with women doesn’t help his case either. The player has 5 kids with 5 different women. Therefore, with these accusations, he is facing a lot of slander from the public.

However, Howard has opened up about his side of the story and cleared out the air.

Dwight Howard loves his son no matter what

Howard was very clear with his statement.  “There’s no way I could be a deadbeat dad if I have a son that lives with me,” he said. “The situation with my other son, it’s unfortunate that a lot of things have been made public.”

He said that his son plays an integral role in his life, which is why this could never be true. “He was one of the biggest reasons why I was able to go out there and help this team win the championship. There’s no way I could be this person that people say I am,”

Dwight was also asked if he contacted his son after the video went viral. In all honesty, Dwight said, “Unfortunately, I haven’t. It’s a lot of things that are going on, but it’s personal. I’d rather keep that side out. I love him to death, he knows that. He’ll always know that.

“He is my firstborn son. He has my name and I will always take care of him. But I think it’s going to turn out great for all of us. We just have to be able to change our mindset, how we speak, how we act, and how we treat each other.

“So instead of me responding out of hate, I’m going to keep responding out of love. It’s too much hate and negativity.”

It’s upsetting to see Dwight’s personal issues clouding his championship title with the Lakers. Unfortunately, which side of the story stands true, will remain a mystery.