Dwight Howard on Epic Battles with LeBron, Being Let Down by Tracy McGrady, Best Dunkers Ever & More

In this engaging episode of Podcast P, Paul George, alongside co-hosts Dallas Rutherford and Jackie, welcomes NBA star Dwight Howard to discuss his illustrious basketball career. Howard shares insights on coaching his son, recounts memorable NBA moments, including his time with LeBron James and Kobe Bryant, and discusses his experience on the 2008 Olympic "Redeem Team." He also reflects on his NBA journey, including his memorable 2009 playoff run with Orlando and winning the 2020 championship with the Lakers. The conversation touches on Howard's perspective on the evolution of the game, his Hall of Fame nomination, and his post-NBA endeavors, including participating in the challenging reality show "Special Forces."

• Dwight Howard discusses his involvement in coaching his son's basketball team in Georgia, expressing joy in imparting his basketball knowledge to young players.
• He highlights the similarities between his children and himself, noting their physical attributes and skills in basketball.
• Dwight emphasizes the importance of teaching young players high-level basketball skills and the joy he derives from coaching.

"Just got finished coaching my son and his basketball team down here in Georgia and I just been so thrilled to actually coach."

• Dwight Howard finds fulfillment in coaching his son's team, enjoying the opportunity to teach basketball.

"My son that's here, he has my size so like he's out there bullying folks getting all the rebounds."

• Dwight observes his son's physical prowess on the court, reminiscent of his own playing style.

• Dwight Howard shares his experience filming a McDonald's commercial with LeBron James and Larry Bird in Indiana.
• The commercial involved performing creative dunks with a lowered basketball hoop, which Dwight found enjoyable.
• Dwight reflects on the surreal experience of working with basketball legends and the personal significance of the McDonald's endorsement.

"The commercial was actually it was super fun. We did it in Indiana actually, so super cold outside."

• Dwight Howard recounts the enjoyable experience of filming the commercial in Indiana.

"I think it would be funny if we acted like we didn't know who Larry Bird was."

• Dwight proposed a humorous element to the commercial, enhancing its entertainment value.

• Dwight Howard discusses the evolution of the dunk contest and the challenges of meeting high expectations.
• He suggests incorporating more star players and a one-on-one format to increase excitement during All-Star Weekend.
• Dwight comments on the need for creativity and entertainment to keep fans engaged in the dunk contest.

"I think that people's expectations are through the roof now like what else can be done as a dunker."

• Dwight acknowledges the high expectations for new and innovative dunks in the contest.

"I think it has to be more stars like more more stars got to be in it just to like add a little thrill to the dunk contest."

• Dwight suggests that involving more star players could enhance the appeal of the dunk contest.

• The discussion touches on the criticisms and changes in All-Star Weekend, including the new format and its impact on viewership.
• Dwight Howard and others express mixed opinions on the involvement of rising stars and the significance of the Kobe Bryant award.
• The conversation explores potential improvements, such as bringing back elements like the Big Z and introducing new competitive formats.

"I think the NBA is just trying to find so many different ways to bring viewership to get more people to come to the games and be entertained."

• Dwight Howard explains the NBA's efforts to innovate and attract more viewers to All-Star Weekend.

"I think what Chuck said too was an honest and I think a great opinion about ultimately Our Generation messing what the All-Star Weekend meant."

• The discussion reflects on how changes in the format have altered the traditional meaning of All-Star Weekend.

• The podcast discusses LeBron James's decision to sit out the All-Star Game and the implications for other players.
• Dwight Howard and others suggest that LeBron's last-minute decision deprived other deserving players of an opportunity.
• The conversation critiques LeBron's timing and the potential impact on players like Norman Powell who could have participated.

"I just felt like there's no offense to LeBron but he could have said something earlier so somebody else get in an All-Star game."

• Dwight Howard criticizes the timing of LeBron's decision, suggesting it could have allowed another player to participate.

"Norman Palace having a great season... could have had an opportunity to play."

• The discussion highlights how LeBron's decision affected other players' chances to participate in the All-Star Game.

• The conversation begins with mixed feelings about All-Star Weekend, indicating a sense of ambivalence towards the event.
• Dwight Howard expresses admiration for LeBron James, humorously referring to him as "Le GM" for his influence over team decisions.

"They call him Le GM, Le coach. He knows when Jesus is coming back, and the Bible says no man knows that day."

• This quote humorously emphasizes LeBron's perceived omniscience in basketball decisions.

• Dwight Howard reflects on his rookie season with the Orlando Magic and the impact of Tracy McGrady's trade request.
• He expresses initial disappointment but acknowledges the trade allowed him to grow independently.

"I was highly disappointed because I'm like, T-Mac, you came from high school just like me, and you're saying that you don't want to play with another high schooler."

• This quote highlights Howard's initial disappointment with McGrady's decision, feeling prematurely dismissed.

• Howard discusses the influence of veteran players on his development during his early years with the Orlando Magic.
• He emphasizes the importance of hard work and respect within the team environment.

"They tried to teach me what work was. I had Grant Hill, Stacy Augmon, and Tony Battie, who was probably my favorite vet."

• This quote underscores the mentorship and guidance Howard received from veteran players, shaping his professional ethos.

• Howard recalls the 2009 Eastern Conference Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers and the motivation derived from being overlooked in favor of a Kobe vs. LeBron finals narrative.
• The team used the perceived slight as motivation to perform at their best.

"Every time I saw a Kobe and LeBron commercial, I was at home like, I can't wait to get on the floor and play these guys."

• This quote illustrates the motivation and determination Howard and his teammates felt to prove themselves against the favored narrative.

• Howard recounts the dramatic game two of the series where LeBron James hit a buzzer-beater to win the game.
• Despite the setback, the team remained confident and focused on the next game.

"We were so mad that he hit that lucky shot because everybody said on the baseline, 'The only person who can make a shot with this much time is LeBron.'"

• This quote captures the team's frustration and recognition of LeBron's exceptional ability, yet their resolve to move forward with confidence.

• Howard explains the strategic differences in defending LeBron James versus Kobe Bryant.
• The focus with LeBron was on forcing tough shots, while Kobe required a different approach due to his proficiency in making difficult shots.

"With playing Kobe, the difference is he's a tough two-point shot maker, so it was a little different game plan."

• This quote highlights the distinct challenges posed by each player and the need for tailored defensive strategies.

• Howard reflects on the 2009 NBA Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers and the challenge of facing Kobe Bryant and the Lakers' formidable lineup.
• The experience underscored the difficulty of reaching and competing in the finals.

"Seeing how Phil Jackson was able to take this juggernaut of an offensive scorer in Kobe and match him up with the three-headed monster with Lamar, Andrew Bynum, and Pau."

• This quote emphasizes the strategic prowess of Phil Jackson and the formidable challenge posed by the Lakers' lineup.

• Kobe Bryant exhibited a unique pre-game focus, often described as having an "eagle look" where he seemed to observe everything simultaneously.
• His ritual included licking his lips and chewing imaginary gum, which became a recognizable part of his pre-game demeanor.

"Kobe got this little eagle look with one eye is focused but the other eyes looking at everybody at the same time."

• This quote highlights Kobe's intense focus and awareness, likening him to an eagle, symbolizing his readiness and strategic mindset.

• Dwight Howard requested a trade from the Orlando Magic before the season to avoid media scrutiny similar to LeBron's situation.
• The media portrayed Howard as wanting to leave and causing internal conflict, despite his silence on the matter.

"I went to the magic and asked him, you know, could you know I get traded...but they didn't trade me at all."

• Dwight's quote reflects his frustration with the Magic's management and the media's portrayal, emphasizing his desire for a private resolution.

• During a media interaction, Stan Van Gundy stated that the front office told him Dwight wanted him fired, which Dwight was unaware of.
• This incident led to a perception of Dwight as a "coach killer," which he strongly opposed.

"Stan is out there and they're asking him some crazy questions...then he just walks off and they like yes Stan just told us that you wanted him fired."

• This quote captures the moment of miscommunication and the subsequent misunderstanding, highlighting Dwight's distress and the impact on his reputation.

• The Orlando Magic were pioneers in the three-point era, leading the league in three-pointers made for five consecutive years.
• Dwight Howard adapted to a playstyle that emphasized spreading the floor and utilizing pick-and-rolls.

"The best way to get the ball is to keep the floor spread...Force the defense to collapse if they don't help I got a dump if they do help my guys got threes on the perimeter."

• This quote explains the strategic advantage of spreading the floor and Dwight's role in facilitating scoring opportunities for his teammates.

• Dwight Howard was encouraged to focus on dunks rather than developing a three-point shot during his NBA career.
• Despite practicing various skills, teams prioritized his dominance in the paint over expanding his shooting range.

"I was working on every part of my game...but the teams are saying this is not what we want from you."

• This quote illustrates Dwight's frustration with being limited to a specific role despite his efforts to diversify his skills.

• The NBA's evolution toward more versatile big men occurred after Dwight's prime, limiting his ability to showcase his full potential.
• Dwight's dominance in the paint was both a blessing and a curse, as it defined his career but restricted his development in other areas.

"It was like a blessing and a curse like I was so good at being dominant in the paint."

• This quote reflects Dwight's internal conflict between his established role and the desire to evolve with the changing game.

• Dwight Howard was the youngest member of the 2008 Olympic Redeem Team, gaining invaluable experience alongside legendary players.
• The practices and camaraderie with elite players boosted his confidence and motivation for the NBA season.

"I was the youngest guy on this Olympic team...I'm playing against Prime Kobe."

• This quote conveys Dwight's awe and appreciation for the opportunity to learn from and compete with basketball greats.

• The Olympic experience reinforced Dwight's status as one of the best players, enhancing his confidence and performance in the NBA.
• Competing against top-tier talent in practice provided insights and strategies that Dwight applied in regular-season games.

"Playing against them and actually dominating their practices...gave me more confidence for the regular season."

• This quote underscores the positive impact of the Olympic experience on Dwight's self-assurance and competitive edge.

• The Redeem Team's success was attributed to the players' hard work and dedication, which Dwight Howard witnessed firsthand.
• The commitment to excellence and rigorous training routines were key factors in the team's achievements and individual longevity.

"It was just the era that all of us came up in like we knew nothing but hard work."

• This quote highlights the shared work ethic among the Redeem Team members, emphasizing the role of perseverance in their careers.

• Dwight Howard shared a light-hearted moment with teammates at a Wendy's, showcasing the bond and camaraderie among the Redeem Team members.
• These experiences contributed to the team's chemistry and the overall enjoyment of the Olympic journey.

"We was going by Wendy's...I had to get me a double stack with a large fry and a Frosty."

• This quote captures a humorous and relatable moment, illustrating the team's unity and the lighter side of their Olympic experience.

• Dwight Howard's decision to leave the Lakers was influenced by the potential opportunities in Houston, not due to any challenge from Kobe Bryant.
• He saw a promising future with the Rockets, including working with Hakeem Olajuwon and teaming up with emerging talents.

"The only thing Kobe did say during that time was if you want to leave then leave and if you want to stay then stay."

• This quote clarifies the nature of Kobe's comments, dispelling rumors of a confrontation and emphasizing Dwight's independent decision-making process.

• The decision to leave the Lakers was influenced by emotional factors and external pressures.
• The blame for the team's performance was perceived to be unfairly placed on the speaker.
• External opinions impacted the speaker's career decisions.

"I just felt kind of bad with that but it's like Kobe had just got hurt, I think it was going to be a rebuilding year and some of my decision to leave was a little bit emotional."

• The speaker was emotionally affected by the situation, particularly due to Kobe's injury and the team's rebuilding phase.

"A lot of the blame that season got put on me and I allowed the outside noise to kind of affect my judgment."

• External criticism and blame influenced the speaker's decision-making regarding their career.

• Intense on-court battles with Paul George, especially memorable moments during games.
• A specific incident involving a dunk and subsequent lifting gesture was highlighted.
• The competition extended beyond regular games to exhibition matches as well.

"I think it was one time he dunked on me was it after the play or you trying to after the play you lifting me up."

• A memorable moment in their rivalry where Paul George dunked and then lifted the speaker, highlighting the competitive spirit.

"I would say our battle my battles playing against PG were mostly going against, I can't think of the big man now Roy."

• The speaker recalls their competitive encounters with Paul George and other players like Roy Hibbert.

• Both the speaker and Paul George experienced similar severe leg injuries.
• The speaker's injury led to unexpected physical growth.
• The injuries highlighted their resilience and determination to continue playing.

"We did have some battles, I would say the craziest thing that I seen with PG is when he got when you got hurt in the Olympics."

• Acknowledgement of Paul George's injury and the shared experience of overcoming similar challenges.

"I actually broke my growth plate which is crazy I was 5'9 at the time and I broke my growth plate and grew all the way to 6'11 after that."

• The speaker's injury led to significant physical changes, illustrating resilience and adaptation.

• Indiana was a favorite place to play due to the fans and atmosphere.
• The defensive mindset of the Indiana team was appreciated.
• The influence of coaches and team culture was significant.

"It was just nothing that we could have did against y'all and it's so crazy I love playing in Indiana that was my favorite places to play."

• Indiana provided a memorable playing experience, with challenging games and a supportive environment.

"We were such a defensive-minded team and that's what you know you were awesome at protecting the paint."

• The defensive focus of the Indiana team was a key aspect of their strategy and success.

• The 2020 Lakers championship win was significant but faced skepticism due to the bubble environment.
• The bubble presented unique challenges, including strict health protocols and limited resources.
• The experience was both stressful and rewarding, culminating in a championship victory.

"The bubble was the bubble, it was one fish in the lake so if you wanted to fish everybody had to try to catch that one fish."

• The bubble environment was challenging and unique, with limited resources and strict protocols.

"Just having the opportunity to play basketball being in Orlando where I started my career at played with the Lakers again and win so that was the ultimate goal."

• The championship win was a fulfilling achievement, especially given the circumstances of the bubble.

• The speaker has been nominated for the Hall of Fame but has not officially retired.
• Retirement decisions are influenced by personal choice rather than external pressures.
• Playing with the Lakers and LeBron James was a highlight of the speaker's career.

"I have not officially retired yet, but I don't know what I'm going to do yet."

• The speaker is uncertain about retirement plans and values personal choice in the decision.

"I just wanted to play as long as I could play and retire when I feel like retire not when somebody else tells me I should."

• Retirement is seen as a personal decision, emphasizing autonomy and self-determination.

• Participating in a Special Forces challenge was one of the toughest experiences.
• The experience tested physical and mental limits, including writing death letters and facing extreme scenarios.
• It reinforced the speaker's belief in their ability to overcome any challenge.

"It was literally one of the toughest things that I had to do and before we even started the show we had to sign death waivers."

• The Special Forces challenge was intense and required participants to confront their mortality.

"It taught me really is that I can do anything I really put my mind to."

• The experience reinforced the speaker's confidence in their resilience and determination.

• The speaker has embraced social media, particularly TikTok, encouraged by their children.
• Social media is used as a platform for entertainment and sharing positive messages.
• The speaker conducts Bible studies on TikTok, aiming to enlighten and inspire followers.

"My kids they're telling me like Dwight, dad you gotta always adapt you got to be able to grow and adapt and change."

• The speaker's children encouraged embracing social media as a tool for growth and adaptation.

"A lot of times that I get on these lives I do Bible studies, you know so we have full-on Bible studies for an hour and a half two hours."

• Social media is used as a platform for sharing positive messages and conducting Bible studies.

• The speaker questions the omission from the list of top dunkers despite holding records.
• Emphasizes the difference between contest dunkers and in-game dunkers.
• The criteria for being considered a top dunker are debated.

"We're talking about you Dwight so where do you think you rank on a list of top 10 dunkers."

• The speaker's achievements in dunking are highlighted, questioning their exclusion from top lists.

"If you want to talk about the best dunkers you got to put the people that dunk all the time on people in there."

• The criteria for being considered a top dunker should include consistent performance in games.