Dwight Howard Completely Dominates in His Taiwan Debut

Howard also tallied 25 rebounds, nine assists, and four blocks in his first game with the Taoyuan Leopards. The team beat the New Taipei CTBC DEA, 120-115.

November 20, 2022

Dwight Howard #39 of the Los Angeles Lakers smiles before the game against the Golden State — Image via Getty/Jed Jacobsohn/NBAE
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Dwight Howard reminded fans he’s still got it.

The eight-time NBA All-Star returned to the court this weekend for his first game in Taiwan’s T1 League. And his debut was nothing short of impressive. Howard, who signed with the Taoyuan Leopards earlier this month, helped his team erase a double-digit halftime deficit, scoring a total of 38 points (including two three-pointers), 25 rebounds, nine assists, and nine blocks.

The Leopards ultimately secured a 120–115 victory over New Taipei CTBC DEA, and Howard was named “player of the game.”

Naturally, Howard’s jaw-dropping performance generated quite the buzz on social media.

The Leopards are now preparing to take on Taichung Suns this Sunday.

Howard announced his deal with T1 League earlier this month, after 18 seasons in the NBA.

“It’s crazy how things play out because back in 2013 I told Taiwan that I would do my best to come back so that I can spread love and put smiles on people’s faces through basketball,” he wrote on Instagram, “and now here I am writing this message to announce that I will be returning to Taiwan with the Taoyuan Leopards to play and give the people of Taiwan a chance to watch me play in real time. I have always loved the energy I felt visiting Taiwan as you can see I still have posters hanging up on my walls from my first two times visiting! I’m ready to enjoy life by playing the sport I love in front of a bunch of people that love me and for my people in Taiwan have your posters ready to welcome yours truly.”