Dwight Howard, the towering former NBA All-Star best known for his time with the Orlando Magic and Los Angeles Lakers, has made waves off the court in a very different arena—Dancing With the Stars (DWTS). Competing alongside pro dancer Daniella Karagach, Howard has experienced both the highs and lows of the ballroom competition, and he insists that joining the show has been a life-changing decision.
From Basketball Superstar to Ballroom Contender
Howard, who currently plays basketball overseas for Taiwan’s Taoyuan Leopards, finally had the opportunity to participate in DWTS after three years of trying to make it happen. “I’ve been wanting to do this for a long time,” Howard shared. “This year, without a basketball season to worry about, I finally got my chance, and it’s the best decision I made.”
The NBA star and his partner performed a range of dance styles that showcased his athleticism, starting with a vibrant salsa to Montell Jordan’s “This Is How We Do It,” earning them an encouraging 22 points from the judges. As the competition progressed, their most memorable performance came with an Argentine tango inspired by a previous routine from the show, where they scored an impressive 26 out of 30.
How Dancing Has Helped Dwight Howard’s Game
Dancing isn’t just about dazzling costumes and smooth moves; for Howard, it’s also been a form of physical and mental training. “It’s kept me in shape like I never expected,” he explained. Despite the grueling eight-hour daily rehearsals, Howard found that ballroom dancing maintained his basketball conditioning. “I’m in great shape even without running sprints or doing my usual training. All the jumps and movements keep my legs strong,” he said.
Moreover, Howard has drawn life lessons from the experience. Partner dancing requires synchronicity and trust, which he likened to teamwork in sports. “It’s taught me a lot about working in harmony with someone else,” Howard noted. He emphasized the importance of timing and rhythm, qualities essential in both dance and basketball.
Chemistry with Daniella Karagach: Making the Impossible Work
Daniella Karagach, who famously led NBA player Iman Shumpert to a DWTS victory in 2021, faced unique challenges with Howard’s 6’10” frame. “When I first saw Dwight, I thought, ‘How am I going to make this work?’” she admitted. The drastic height difference required constant creativity and careful planning. Still, Karagach’s choreography showcased Howard’s strengths, especially in breathtaking lifts and dramatic poses that wowed the judges.
Despite a rollercoaster of scores, Howard and Karagach remained fan favorites. Their bond and mutual respect were evident on the dance floor, adding an emotional depth to their performances. “Daniella has been incredible,” Howard said. “We’ve faced so many obstacles, but she’s made me a better dancer and a better person.”
A Turning Point in Howard’s Life
Howard’s DWTS journey coincided with a reflective period in his career. Though some fans have been vocal about wanting him back with the Lakers, he has embraced this chance to explore new passions. “This experience has opened my eyes to what I can do beyond basketball,” he remarked. While he remains open to future opportunities in the NBA, Howard believes that dancing has had a lasting impact. “Win or lose, being on Dancing With the Stars is something I’ll never forget.”
As Howard continues to pursue excellence both on and off the dance floor, his story inspires fans to see him in a new light. From his high-flying dunks on the basketball court to executing elegant footwork in the ballroom, Dwight Howard proves that greatness can come in many forms.
