Former NBA star Dwight Howard’s time on Dancing with the Stars came to an end on Tuesday night, as he and his dance partner Daniella Karagach were eliminated from the competition. Despite delivering an impressive performance throughout the season, Howard’s journey concluded in the quarterfinals, where he celebrated the show’s 500th episode with a special dance routine.
The quarterfinals featured a tribute to some of the most memorable dance routines in Dancing with the Stars history, and Howard’s performance, as always, showcased his charisma and athleticism.
The judges praised his enthusiasm and willingness to take on the challenge, and fans enjoyed seeing the lighter, more artistic side of the former NBA champion. However, despite his efforts, Howard and Karagach fell short of advancing to next week’s semifinal round.
Three other athletes—former NFL wide receiver Danny Amendola and recent Team USA Olympians Ilona Maher and Stephen Nedoroscik—were able to secure their spots in the semifinals. The competition is fierce, and with the level of talent increasing each week, Howard’s elimination came down to some close scores.
Throughout the season, Dwight Howard brought his larger-than-life personality to the ballroom floor, winning over viewers with his charm and playful demeanor. The former Orlando Magic and Houston Rockets standout showcased his dancing skills week after week, pushing himself out of his comfort zone and demonstrating a side of him that fans rarely get to see. His journey on the show has been filled with memorable moments, from his playful jives to dramatic Paso Dobles, and he quickly became a fan favorite.
Reflecting on his time on Dancing with the Stars, Howard expressed gratitude for the opportunity. He shared that stepping onto the dance floor was one of the most challenging things he had ever done, but also one of the most rewarding. “I’ve had an amazing time. I learned so much, and I couldn’t have asked for a better partner than Daniella,” Howard said during his post-elimination interview. “It’s not easy to get out here and do something completely different from what you’ve done your whole life, but I gave it my all. I hope I made my fans proud.”
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Howard’s dance partner, Daniella Karagach, also spoke highly of the experience, saying that working with Dwight was a pleasure. “Dwight put his heart into every routine, and that’s what made this journey so special. He approached every dance with enthusiasm, and we had so much fun out there,” Karagach said.
Dwight Howard, a former NBA champion, is best known for his contributions on the basketball court. The 6’10” center had an illustrious NBA career, winning an NBA title with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020.
During his career, Howard was known for his dominant play in the paint, his defensive prowess, and his charismatic personality. He was an eight-time All-Star and a three-time Defensive Player of the Year. More recently, Howard played for the Taoyuan Taiwan Beer Leopards in Taiwan from 2022-2023, where he continued to bring his signature energy to the court.
While his basketball career is what made him a household name, Howard’s time on Dancing with the Stars gave fans an opportunity to see him in a completely different light. His willingness to embrace the challenges of dance and his positive attitude endeared him to viewers, even though his journey has now come to an end.
Though his Dancing with the Stars journey is over, Dwight Howard leaves the show with a new set of skills, a renewed sense of confidence, and an appreciation for an entirely different form of performance.
As for what’s next, Howard has hinted that he’s open to new adventures, and he’s grateful for the experience and the support from fans who followed his journey.
The quarterfinals may have been the end of the road for Dwight Howard on Dancing with the Stars, but his time on the show was filled with joy, laughter, and growth.
As the competition heads into the semifinal round, Howard will no doubt be cheering on his fellow athletes, and fans will be left with the memory of the basketball star who took on the ballroom and gave it his all.
