Dwight Howard, a former NBA player, is a rainbow baby to his parents, who encouraged him to pursue basketball from an early age.
Dwight was born in Atlanta to Dwight Sr. and Sheryl Howard after his mother experienced seven miscarriages, which is why he was called a miracle child.
From nine, Howard gravitated towards basketball and was determined to become a professional player.
His parents supported his dream, and the former NBA star has often spoken about how their support was instrumental in his career success.
Moreover, he credits much of his success to his parents, who have been there for him since day one.
Dwight Howard Was Born Into an Athletic Family Who Encouraged Him From an Early Age!
Dwight Howard was born into a family with strong athletic connections, which also influenced his career.
His father, Dwight Howard Sr., was a Georgia State Trooper and the athletic director at Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy.
It was his father who took him to practice basketball every day during his childhood, which shows his unwavering support for his son.
Further, Dwight’s mother, Sheryl, was a former player on the inaugural women’s basketball team at Morris Brown School.
Given that his mother was a former player, it wasn’t surprising that he was influenced to play the sport as well.
Since his parents are private people and prefer to keep their personal life out of the spotlight, much information about them is unavailable.
On talking in an episode of In Depth With Graham, Howard shared about his family and his mother’s experience of child loss.
Dwight also expressed how attending church shaped his personality and ethics as a child.
Further, he shared his childhood stories of being really close with his family and how his parents raised him and his siblings.
It just that they never stopped working. Like whatever the situation is, no matter what they had going on, my parents continued to work, tried to inspire and motivate us.
Dwight spoke about honoring his parents’ hard work and sacrifices by being the best person he can be.
Nonetheless, Dwight Howard is humble and acknowledges his parents’ support and role in his success.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Dwight Howard was an eight-time All-Star, eight-time All-NBA Team honoree, five-time All-Defensive Team member, and three-time Defensive Player of the Year.
- Howard has played for prominent teams such as the Los Angeles Lakers, the Houston Rockets, the Orlando Magic, the Atlanta Hawks, the Charlotte Hornets, and the Philadelphia 76ers.
- The NBA star has five children with five women and has also appeared on the 33rd season of Dancing with the Stars with Daniella Karagach.