Dwight Howard Makes His Dancing with the Stars Debut With Partner Daniella Karagach

Dwight Howard is potentially returning to the court since he last played in an NBA game in 2022. When a team needs size and strength in the paint, fans often bring up the eight-time All-Star. Although Howard, a five-time All-NBA First-Team selection, still plays basketball, he has discovered a surprising new outlet for his energy: ballroom dancing. Many were surprised when the 6-foot-10 former NBA champion competed in season 33 of ‘Dancing with the Stars,’ a pivot currently competing in season 33.

Howard’s impressive size and stature left many with lowered expectations for his debut, especially since ballroom dancing requires a lot of finesse and footwork. The tall athlete and his professional dance partner, Daniella Karagach, performed an impressive salsa to Montell Jordan’s hit, ‘This Is How We Do It.’

Howard’s imposing frame didn’t stop him from moving with agility and rhythm, delivering an unexpected high-energy routine. His performance demonstrated his athleticism and adaptability, and it was not just an entertaining display. The judges’ panel gave the duo a score of 22, which was the second-best of the night, making Howard’s debut a standout moment on the show.

The fans echoed the judges’ sentiments and flooded social media with praise for Howard’s swift actions. CBS Sports betting analyst Mackenzie Brooks summed up the evening’s surprise, posting, “In case anyone was wondering, Dwight Howard just absolutely CRUSHED his Dancing with the Stars debut.”  Howard’s ability to dance drew supporters and critics willing to give him credit.

Bob Ryan, a Boston sportswriter, admired Howard’s performance even though he hadn’t been a fan. “You cannot deny how impressive he was tonight on ‘Dancing with the Stars,’” Ryan wrote, expressing a sentiment shared by many who witnessed Howard glide across the floor effortlessly.

Have never been the biggest Dwight Howard fan, but you cannot deny how impressive he was tonight on “Dancing With The Stars.”

— Bob Ryan (@GlobeBobRyan) September 18, 2024

The three-time Defensive Player of the Year has always taken on new challenges and is known for his larger-than-life personality and charisma. Howard has consistently shown a willingness to evolve, whether he led the Orlando Magic to the NBA Finals in 2009 or reinvented himself as a valuable veteran presence in his later years.

Howard’s presence on ‘Dancing With the Stars’ continues that trend. As an athlete whose career has been characterized by polarizing opinions, his ballroom dancing venture allows him to showcase a different side of himself – lighthearted, graceful, and unexpectedly charming.

Howard is not the first athlete to attempt dancing on live television. The show has seen many sports stars compete, with 11 winning the Mirrorball Trophy over the years. Howard’s unique journey is due to his size and basketball pedigree. His athleticism transcends sports as he navigates a new style of performance and a new way of performing.

Dwight Howard has tapped into something special as fans keep buzzing about his performance and anticipating his following routine. He is now not just the shot-blocking, rim-protecting force that ruled NBA courts for almost two decades but also a multifaceted entertainer who can hold his own in the ballroom.