Dwight Howard shares Michael Jordan’s advice that helped him improve during his time with the Charlotte Hornets
During the 2017–18 NBA season, Dwight Howard wore the teal jersey of the Charlotte Hornets, an NBA team owned by none other than the legendary Michael Jordan. Despite his short time with the Hornets, Howard, a three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year winner, made a lasting impression.
While Howard wasn’t as dominant as he was with the Orlando Magic, he was able to thrive against the Hornets thanks to Jordan’s leadership and tutelage. Howard proved that he could still be a valuable player despite his peak with the Hornets, averaging 16.6 points, 12.5 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game.
Despite the Hornets’ 36-46 record and 10th place in the Eastern Conference, Howard’s individual performances were impressive. He played 81 games, made over 50% of his field goals and showed his consistency on the field that made him a key player for the team.
Recently, Howard posted on social media recounting a conversation he had with Jordan, the Hornets’ chairman at the time. Jordan’s advice to Howard was simple but powerful: “Just be the same old Dwight.” Those wise words resonated with Howard and allowed him to return to being the player he once was – a dominant force in the penalty box, known for his defense, rebounding and athleticism. Jordan’s advice, coupled with Howard’s experience, led to a resurgence of sorts during his time in Charlotte.
Although Howard has changed as a player since helping the Orlando Magic to the NBA Finals in 2009, he still heeded Jordan’s advice and focused on honing his skills. The veteran center’s consistent play throughout the season was heavily influenced by Jordan’s confidence in his abilities.
Also read: When Michael Jordan’s daughter had to google him after being told he was famous: ‘You don’t know my dad, how do you know?’
A look at the old Dwight
Given his amazing career, it’s easy to overlook Dwight Howard’s brief but memorable 2017-18 NBA season with the Charlotte Hornets. Howard had already established himself as one of the NBA’s most intimidating big men, winning three consecutive Defensive Player of the Year awards.
However, many thought his best days were behind him when he signed with the Hornets. Despite that assumption, Howard managed to put up some outstanding numbers, and a timely conversation with Michael Jordan may have been instrumental in his success.
The Hornets, then owned by Jordan, brought in Howard to bolster their frontcourt and add a veteran presence. Although Howard wasn’t the same player he was with the Orlando Magic, he showed he still had a lot left in the tank.
Howard has been a key player for the Hornets this year, averaging 16.6 points, 12.5 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game. But Howard says it was Jordan’s coaching that restored his confidence and allowed him to play at a high level.
Read also: Isiah Thomas criticizes Michael Jordan and the Bulls for mistreating former GM Jerry Krause
Jordan’s simple but effective advice
Howard recently posted on social media an exclusive interview he conducted with Michael Jordan during his time with the Hornets, in which Jordan gave Howard some advice that stuck with him.
Jordan is known for his fierce competitive spirit and remarkable basketball IQ. According to Howard, Jordan told him to “just be the same old Dwight.” This small but profound comment reminded Howard of the outstanding player he once was and inspired him to maintain his top level of play.
“The fact is, it’s like when I went to Charlotte and Jordan told me to just be the old Dwight,” Howard said, reflecting on how that advice helped him regain the mindset that once made him one of the league’s most feared defenders and rebounders.
Jordan’s advice seemed simple, but it struck a chord with Howard. Jordan allowed Howard to focus on his talents, which included protecting the basket, controlling the boards and guarding the zone, by helping him figure out who he was as a player.
Also read: When Michael Jordan became insecure and yelled at Stephen A. Smith for praising 20-year-old LeBron James
