#United States #Los Angeles #BIG3 #Dwight Howard #Los Angeles Riot

Dwight Howard Joins the BIG3

In an exciting turn of events for basketball fans, Dwight Howard, the legendary NBA player, has signed with the BIG3 to play for the Los Angeles Riot during the league's eighth season in the summer of 2025. This season marks Howard's final professional basketball campaign, where he aims to showcase his skills in a unique arena. The BIG3 league, founded by Ice Cube, has flourished since its inception, allowing players to embrace their talents and passion for the game while offering fans a refreshing experience.

A Glimpse into Dwight Howard's Career
Howard, an eight-time All-Star and the first overall pick of the 2004 NBA Draft, boasts an illustrious career filled with accolades. He has been inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, which underscores his impact on the sport. His career has seen him dominate the courts for almost two decades with various teams, including the Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, and others. Notably, he won an NBA Championship with the Lakers in 2020, a testament to his resilience and skill.

The upcoming season promises to be an exciting one as Howard officially tips off on June 14, 2025, at the Allstate Arena in Chicago, IL, during a highly anticipated match. Notably, ticket pre-sales began recently, leading to an electrifying atmosphere for his anticipated debut.

The Reactions from Leadership
BIG3’s CEO, Ice Cube, expressed his enthusiastic welcome to Howard, commending his legacy while highlighting the fun aspect of the game that he still embodies. Ice Cube mentioned, “We all know that Dwight Howard can do more on the basketball court than he was able to show in the NBA.” He further emphasized how Howard’s unique skills and athleticism make him a perfect fit for the league. The CEO looks forward to seeing how Howard competes against the league's established stars during the summer season.

As a new Player-Captain of the LA Riot, Howard will collaborate with Co-Captains Jordan Crawford and Elijah Stewart, who are familiar faces in the league following their 2023 Championship win as part of the Enemies. Under the guidance of Head Coach Nick Young, the LA Riot aims to capture another title, making it a thrilling storyline for fans to follow.

Howard's Personal Goals
In Howard's own words, he expressed excitement about joining the BIG3 right after receiving his Hall of Fame nod. “I can't wait to bring another championship to the city of LA,” Howard shared, fully acknowledging the joy of the game. His ultimate ambition is to contribute to the league's growth on a global stage, showing his commitment not only to his success but also to the sport itself.

Beyond the court, Howard is also known for being a basketball media personality and a sports executive. He co-hosts the Above the Rim Podcast and is a co-owner of the professional basketball league The Asian Tournament, showcasing his diverse contributions to basketball culture.

Vision for 2025 BIG3 Season
The BIG3 is undergoing exciting transformations for its 2025 season. The league will enhance its structure by incorporating a city-based model with eight new teams representing various markets including Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, and more. This change aims to foster a stronger connection with local fans while expanding the league's appeal. Additionally, production is gearing up for a pioneering docuseries that will document the journey to the 2025 Championship, featuring the dynamic personalities of players like Howard.

BIG3 founders Ice Cube and Jeff Kwatinetz emphasize their mission not only to entertain but also to foster positivity, diversity, and inclusivity within the sport of basketball. The league endeavors to break stereotypes and create new pathways for athletes of all backgrounds.

As the BIG3 gears up for an exhilarating season, the spotlight remains on Dwight Howard, a player committed to leaving a lasting legacy in professional basketball as he embarks on this new chapter.