With the latest dismissal of a civil lawsuit that accused former NBA star Dwight Howard of sexual assault and battery, hypothesis is mounting about the potential of the veteran middle making a return to the NBA. The authorized case, which had been a major distraction for Howard, was formally dismissed earlier this week, doubtlessly opening the door for a late-career comeback.
The lawsuit’s dismissal was first reported by ESPN’s Baxter Holmes, who famous that the case was dropped in a Georgia county courtroom on Monday. The lawsuit, initially filed by Stephen Harper in July 2023, alleged that Howard had dedicated sexual assault, false imprisonment, and intentional infliction of emotional misery throughout an encounter at Howard’s residence in July 2021.
With Harper dismissing the case with prejudice, he forfeited the best to refile the lawsuit on the identical grounds sooner or later, successfully closing the chapter on this authorized battle.
A civil lawsuit alleging Dwight Howard of s*xual assault and battery has been dropped.
The previous NBA All-Star has denied the allegations and stated in an October submitting that he and the accuser, engaged in “consensual s*xual exercise.” pic.twitter.com/fQXA56isPG
— Sportsville (@Sportsville_) August 22, 2024
All through the authorized proceedings, Howard maintained his innocence, insisting that the encounter was consensual. His authorized staff aggressively defended him, and the lawsuit’s dismissal with none monetary settlement or prison prices could possibly be seen as a vindication for Howard. This decision permits the 38-year-old middle to shift his focus again to basketball, and hypothesis a few potential NBA return has naturally adopted.
Howard final performed within the NBA through the 2021-22 season with the Los Angeles Lakers, after which he took his skills abroad. Whereas his NBA period appeared to be winding down, Howard has persistently expressed a want to proceed taking part in at a excessive degree. Even throughout his time abroad, Howard remained in wonderful bodily situation, showcasing that he nonetheless has the athleticism and abilities that made him one of the vital dominant large males of his period.
“We speak about it a lot man, I hate even bringing it up as a result of it’s extra so it’s like when someone agitates you want, ‘All proper, man, it’s sufficient.’ However man, I’m grateful. I do wish to make it again to the NBA.. I can nonetheless play,” Howard stated in an interview with Advanced final 12 months.
Given the circumstances, an NBA comeback for Howard isn’t out of the query. A number of components may work in his favor:
1. NBA Groups in Want of Veteran Presence: Many NBA groups may benefit from the expertise and management that Howard brings. His information of the sport, mixed along with his defensive abilities, could possibly be helpful for groups seeking to bolster their frontcourt depth. Howard’s capability to rebound and shield the rim stays robust, attributes which are at all times in demand within the league.
2. Accidents and Midseason Acquisitions: Because the NBA season progresses, accidents and different components typically lead groups to search for skilled gamers who can contribute instantly. Howard’s familiarity with completely different roles—whether or not as a starter or coming off the bench—makes him a flexible choice. His capability to adapt and his willingness to embrace no matter position is critical may make him a sexy midseason acquisition.
3. Motivation to Show Himself: Howard’s aggressive spirit has by no means been in query. With the authorized distraction behind him, he could also be extra motivated than ever to show that he can nonetheless compete on the highest degree. The prospect of returning to the NBA and ending his profession on his personal phrases could possibly be a strong incentive for Howard to present it yet another shot.
4. Earlier Success within the NBA: Howard’s profession achievements converse for themselves. As an eight-time All-Star and three-time Defensive Participant of the 12 months, he has a legacy that many present gamers can solely dream of. His expertise in high-pressure conditions, together with deep playoff runs and an NBA championship with the Lakers in 2020, may make him a helpful asset for a staff with championship aspirations.
Whereas there is no such thing as a official phrase but on whether or not Howard is actively pursuing an NBA return, the dismissal of the lawsuit actually removes a major impediment. The timing could possibly be fortuitous for each Howard and any NBA staff wanting so as to add a seasoned veteran with a confirmed observe report.
For now, the basketball world will watch intently to see if Howard’s subsequent transfer brings him again to the league the place he made his title. With the authorized points behind him, the door is open for a possible NBA return, and followers might but see Dwight Howard donning an NBA jersey as soon as extra.
