Early Life and Education of Dwight Howard: A Complete Timeline

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Dwight Howard

An overview of the childhood and early education of Dwight Howard, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Dwight Howard is a former American professional basketball player, known as "Superman" for his athleticism. An NBA champion and eight-time All-Star, Howard has been recognized as one of the league's best, earning eight All-NBA Team selections. He also excelled defensively, securing five All-Defensive Team nods and winning the Defensive Player of the Year award three times.

December 8, 1985: Dwight Howard's Birth

On December 8, 1985, Dwight David Howard II was born in Atlanta, Georgia.

Others born on this day/year

1995: Inspiration from Kevin Garnett

In 1995, Kevin Garnett's decision to forego college inspired Dwight Howard's decision to declare for the 2004 NBA draft.

2004: High School Achievements

In 2004, Dwight Howard led his team to a 31–2 record and the state title, averaging 25 points, 18 rebounds, 8.1 blocks and 3.5 assists per game. He was also named the Naismith Prep Player of the Year, the Morgan Wootten High School Player of the Year, Gatorade National Player of the Year and the McDonald's National High School Player of the Year. He was co-MVP of the McDonald's All-American Game.

2004: Drafted by Orlando Magic

In 2004, Dwight Howard was selected first overall by the Orlando Magic in the NBA draft after forgoing college.

2004: Selected First Overall in NBA Draft

In 2004, Dwight Howard was selected first overall by the Orlando Magic in the NBA draft and took the number 12 for his jersey.

April 2, 2006: Appearance on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition

On April 2, 2006, Dwight Howard appeared as a special guest on an episode of the ABC series Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.

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2006: Rookie Challenge Selection

In 2006, Dwight Howard was selected to play on the Sophomore Team in the Rookie Challenge during the All-Star break.

2011: Appearance on The Suite Life on Deck

In 2011, Dwight Howard played himself on an episode of The Suite Life on Deck alongside fellow NBA players Deron Williams and Kevin Love.

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2011: Demanded Trade

In 2011, during the lockout-shortened season, Dwight Howard demanded a trade to the New Jersey Nets, Los Angeles Lakers, or Dallas Mavericks.

2011: Asked to be traded to the New Jersey Nets

On March 15, 2012, on the day of the trading deadline for the 2011–12 NBA season, Howard had previously asked to be traded to the New Jersey Nets.

January 31, 2012: Honored as One of the Greatest McDonald's All-Americans

On January 31, 2012, Dwight Howard was honored as one of the 35 greatest McDonald's All-Americans.

March 15, 2012: Waived Right to Opt Out

On March 15, 2012, Dwight Howard waived his right to opt out of his contract and committed to stay with the Magic through the 2012–13 season.

2012: Traded to Los Angeles Lakers

In 2012, Dwight Howard was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers after playing eight seasons with the Orlando Magic.

2014: In the Moment Documentary

In 2014, Epix featured Dwight Howard as the focal point of a documentary about his life called In the Moment.

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March 27, 2020: Death of Melissa Rios

On March 27, 2020, Melissa Rios, the mother of Dwight Howard's son David, died following an epileptic seizure.

2021: Signed with Taoyuan Leopards

After the 2021–22 NBA season, Dwight Howard moved overseas and signed with the Taoyuan Leopards of the T1 League.

2023: Special Forces: World's Toughest Test

In 2023, Dwight Howard finished third on Special Forces: World's Toughest Test.

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September 4, 2024: Dancing with the Stars Season 33

On September 4, 2024, Dwight Howard competed on the thirty-third season of Dancing with the Stars, paired with Daniella Karagach.

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2024: Appearance on Somebody Feed Phil

In 2024, Dwight Howard appeared as a guest in the "Taipei" episode of the Netflix docu-series Somebody Feed Phil.

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