Dwight Howard to Join Orlando Magic Hall of Fame on March 24

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando Magic announced Thursday that Dwight Howard will be inducted into the franchise’s Hall of Fame on March 24, 2025, at 3:45 p.m. at the Kia Center. The ceremony will take place before the Magic’s game against the Los Angeles Lakers at 7 p.m.

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Magic CEO Alex Martins praised Howard’s significant impact on the organization, stating, “Dwight Howard left an undeniable imprint on the history of the Orlando Magic. His contributions led us to the 2009 NBA Finals and marked an era of success for the franchise.”

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Howard, drafted first overall by the Magic in the 2004 NBA Draft, played for the team from 2004 to 2012. During his tenure, he participated in 621 regular season games, averaging 18.4 points, 13.0 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game while shooting an impressive 57.7 percent from the field.

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In addition to his scoring and rebounding prowess, Howard was a six-time NBA All-Star and earned All-NBA selections five times, including being named to the First Team unanimously for the first time in franchise history in 2010. He was also named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year for three consecutive seasons from 2008 to 2011.

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Standing as the Magic’s all-time leader in several categories, including points (11,435), rebounds (8,072), and blocks (1,344), Howard solidified his legacy during a period in which he led the team to multiple playoff appearances, including a run to the Finals in 2009.

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Howard is set to become the 13th inductee into the Orlando Magic Hall of Fame, joining a list that includes team co-founder Pat Williams and former players such as Shaquille O’Neal, Anfernee Hardaway, and Tracy McGrady.

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Despite past tensions surrounding his departure from Orlando to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2012, following a tumultuous exit marked by public disputes, Martins anticipates a warm reception for Howard from fans during the induction ceremony. “I believe time heals those wounds, and at the end of the day, there’s acknowledgment and appreciation for the contributions that players make to a franchise,” Martins said.

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Howard’s contributions to the Orlando community and his philanthropic efforts were also notable during his playing days, as he received the Magic’s Rich and Helen DeVos Community Enrichment Award for his service six times.

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In the years since his departure, Howard has maintained a link to the Magic organization, and his recognition is seen as a culmination of his positive impact both on the court and in the community, ultimately reigniting a connection that waned in the aftermath of his trade.