Dwight Howard, once a key figure in the Los Angeles Lakers’ turnaround story during their 2020 NBA Championship run, is making strides toward an NBA comeback. After a brief stint in Taiwan last season, Howard, who has not officially retired, is set to showcase his skills with the Philippines team, Strong Group, in the Dubai International Basketball Championship later this month.

The eight-time All-Star and three-time Defensive Player of the Year sees this tournament as an opportunity to stay in shape, compete in a foreign market, and make a case for his return to the NBA. Howard, who had previously rejoined the Lakers in 2022 after a challenging 2013 season with the franchise, remains determined to prove he can still contribute at the highest level.

As reported by Shams Charania of The Athletic, Howard’s move to join the Dubai tournament is part of his ongoing pursuit of an NBA comeback. His decision to play with Strong Group provides him with a platform to demonstrate his capabilities and catch the attention of NBA teams seeking a physical presence in the paint.

“In the midst of pursuing an NBA comeback, Dwight Howard plans to sign a deal to play for the Philippines team Strong Group, in the two week Dubai International Basketball Championship in January, sources tell me. The eight-time All-Star and three-time Defensive Player of the Year continues his basketball career with this deal, allowing him to stay in shape and visit a foreign market to play globally after spending last season in Taiwan, and working out with the Warriors before training camp this year.”

Given the current pressure on Lakers star Anthony Davis and the team’s need for a robust interior presence, Howard’s return to the NBA could be of interest to the Lakers or other teams in search of a reliable big man. As Howard continues to keep his basketball career active, his participation in the Dubai tournament serves as a strategic move to stay prepared for potential opportunities in the NBA, showcasing his skills on a global stage.