In a candid revelation, former NBA star Dwight Howard has shared profound regrets about his personal life choices, particularly regarding family planning. The basketball veteran acknowledged having five children with five different women, expressing remorse not about the children themselves, but about the circumstances of their conception and the resulting impact on all involved parties.
“Having kids by multiple women, sharing my body and energy with multiple people, and giving these women false senses of hope for a future—that’s something I wish I could have done differently,” Howard admitted. He reflected on how his youthful choices led to significant emotional and financial consequences, affecting not only him but also his children’s mothers and the families involved.
In the same conversation, Howard offered insights into his professional career, particularly crediting former coach Stan Van Gundy for his development as a player. He praised Van Gundy’s tough-love approach and unwavering commitment to pushing him toward excellence, noting how the coach’s refusal to accept mediocrity helped shape his NBA journey.
The discussion also touched on Howard’s time with the Lakers, with former teammate Danny Green weighing in on the team’s potential had they stayed together after their 2020 championship. While Howard believed they could have achieved a three-peat, Green suggested two championships might have been more realistic.
Interestingly, historical context emerged about Howard’s Lakers tenure, revealing behind-the-scenes negotiations between his former agent Dan Fegan and Lakers GM Mitch Kupchak. These secret meetings at Beverly Hills’ Polo Lounge reportedly included discussions about potentially amnestying Kobe Bryant’s contract to build around Howard, highlighting the complex dynamics at play during that era of Lakers basketball.
Howard’s reflections provide a rare glimpse into both the personal costs of fame and the intricate relationships that shape professional basketball, from locker room dynamics to front office decision-making.
