Former NBA center Dwight Howard expressed on Thursday that he has not ruled out making a return to the league, drawing inspiration from longtime players such as Taj Gibson and Al Horford. His comments came shortly after the Memphis Grizzlies finalized a two-year contract with Gibson, underscoring the impact of veteran presence in the NBA.
Veteran Careers of Taj Gibson and Al Horford Highlight Endurance
Taj Gibson, now 40, impressed with the Charlotte Hornets during the 2024-25 season, delivering solid performances off the bench. Gibson appeared in 37 games, averaging 2.9 points and 3.2 rebounds per contest while playing just over 11 minutes each game. Notably efficient, he shot 49.5% from the field and an accurate 50% from three-point range.
Similarly, 39-year-old Al Horford secured a two-year, $12 million contract with the Golden State Warriors, featuring a player option for the 2026-27 season. Horford continues to play a significant role, averaging 21.2 minutes in 37 games, contributing eight points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. He maintains efficient shooting splits, including 43.1% from the field and 89.5% from the free-throw line.
Dwight Howard’s Past Achievements and Current Outlook
Dwight Howard, who last played in the NBA during the 2021-22 season with the Los Angeles Lakers, posted 6.2 points and 5.9 rebounds over 60 games, including 27 starts, while shooting an impressive 61.2% from the field. The eight-time All-Star and former No. 1 overall pick from the 2004 draft has an illustrious career spanning 18 NBA seasons.
Howard’s notable accomplishments include three Defensive Player of the Year awards, leading the Orlando Magic to the 2009 NBA Finals, and winning a championship with the Lakers in the 2019-20 season. Most recently, he was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the 2025 class alongside Carmelo Anthony.
Potential Farewell Tour Influenced by Horford and Gibson’s Example
While Howard has not made an official announcement regarding a comeback, his recent statement signals a strong interest in extending his playing career, inspired by the longevity of players like Horford and Gibson. On social media, Howard wrote,
“People like Taj Gibson & Al Horford is the reason I ain’t retired I want a farewell tour”
— Dwight Howard, former NBA center
This suggests that Howard is contemplating a final chapter in the NBA, motivated by the sustained success and durability of his veteran peers, as he weighs the possibility of returning to the court.
https://twitter.com/DwightHoward/status/2027180151738388554
