Former NBA star Dwight Howard has officially announced his retirement from basketball, closing the curtain on a remarkable career that spanned nearly two decades, YankeeSports reports.
The Hall of Famer shared the news in a heartfelt Instagram post, leaving fans intrigued by his next steps.
“Taking off the cape”
Howard, affectionately known as “Superman,” revealed his decision with a video montage of his life and career. “Woke up today on the 12th of this month and I figured it was time to move on from Superman! I’m no super human… I cry! I struggle! I feel like everyone else,” he wrote. “But now I’m taking off the cape and retiring from all basketball to pour into my family and give back to communities worldwide.”
Woke up today on the 12th of this month and I figured it’s time to move on from Superman! Im no super human… I cry ! I struggle! I feel like everyone else. Through the lies, the media and the hate I still show love and Smile Through The Storm.
But now Im taking off the cape and… pic.twitter.com/SyZQAcAeLq
— Dwight Howard (@DwightHoward) March 12, 2026
A career of dominance
The No. 1 overall pick in the 2004 NBA Draft, Howard became one of the league’s most dominant big men. Across 18 seasons, he played for the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, Houston Rockets, Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets, Washington Wizards, and Philadelphia 76ers. He averaged 15.7 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game, cementing his reputation as a defensive powerhouse.
Legacy and future plans
Howard admitted he wished for a retirement tour or the chance to play into his 40s like some peers. “I know some of you might think I thought he already ‘retired’ but I didn’t… the game retired me! I still had more left to give!” he explained. Instead, he is launching “D12 Day” on the 12th of every month, pledging to travel worldwide and perform acts of kindness.
Beyond basketball
The Hall of Famer also revealed plans for a documentary chronicling his journey from grade school to the NBA, set for release later this year. Having last played in the 2021–22 season with the Lakers, Howard was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in September. His new mission is clear: to inspire and support the next generation of players while giving back to communities across the globe.
Howard’s farewell marks the end of an era, but his impact on and off the court ensures his legacy will continue to shine.
