Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Dwight Howard signed with the BIG3’s Los Angeles Riot for his final professional season in 2025.
- Howard will be inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame on September 5, 2025.
- The season kicks off on June 14, 2025, and features Howard as Player-Captain alongside Jordan Crawford and Elijah Stewart.
- His participation offers fans a rare chance to see a basketball legend in action on his home turf in Los Angeles on August 9, 2025.
- Howard’s career, marked by numerous accolades and debates over his basketball IQ, concludes with his Hall of Fame induction and ongoing passion for the game.
Table of Contents
Dwight Howard’s BIG3 Journey Begins
A Summer Highlight: Hall of Fame Induction
What This Means for Fans and Basketball
Reflecting on Dwight Howard’s Career
Dwight Howard’s BIG3 Journey Begins
In April 2025, the BIG3 announced that Dwight Howard, an eight-time NBA All-Star and the 2004 first overall draft pick, signed with the Los Angeles Riot for what will be his last season of professional basketball. The BIG3, a 3-on-3 league founded by Ice Cube, begins its eighth season on June 14, 2025, and Howard will debut in Chicago at the Allstate Arena[1][2].
Howard’s role with the Riot is more than symbolic; he will serve as a Player-Captain alongside Co-Captains Jordan Crawford and Elijah Stewart. This move is seen as mutually beneficial: the league gains a legendary player with major star power, while Howard gets to extend his playing career in a fresh and competitive format[3][4].
A Summer Highlight: Hall of Fame Induction
Just weeks after the BIG3 season launch, Dwight Howard will celebrate a career milestone by being inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame on September 5, 2025. His Hall of Fame class includes notable names such as Carmelo Anthony and several WNBA stars. This honor crowns nearly two decades of Howard’s impactful presence in the NBA and professional basketball worldwide[3][4].
What This Means for Fans and Basketball
- For Los Angeles Fans: Howard will lead the LA Riot in their sole home game on August 9, 2025, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood. This unique event allows locals to see a basketball legend compete once again on home turf, not for the Lakers but in the exciting BIG3 format[3].
- Legacy and Growth: Ice Cube, CEO of BIG3, praised Howard’s legacy and athleticism and highlighted the league’s commitment to expanding basketball’s reach globally and supporting diverse communities[3]. Howard’s participation symbolizes this mission and offers fans a new way to experience his basketball talent.
Reflecting on Dwight Howard’s Career
Howard’s career, marked by intense peaks, including multiple All-Star appearances and a key NBA championship, has also been a topic of critical sports commentary. Figures like Mark Cuban and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar have debated aspects of his career decisions and basketball IQ. Nonetheless, his Hall of Fame induction and continued passion for the game signify the lasting impact of his contributions to basketball[3][4].
FAQ
When does Dwight Howard’s final season in BIG3 start?
The 2025 BIG3 season begins on June 14, 2025, with Howard debuting in Chicago at the Allstate Arena.
When will Dwight Howard be inducted into the Hall of Fame?
He will be inducted on September 5, 2025, during the Hall of Fame ceremony.
Will Howard play in Los Angeles in the BIG3?
Yes, he will lead the LA Riot in their home game on August 9, 2025, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood.