- Howard Skips Dubai, Stays Loyal to Filipino Fans
- Dwight Howard Chooses Filipino Fans Over Dubai Basketball Championship
- Loyalty Over Competition: Dwight Howard Declines Dubai Offers to Support Strong Group
Dwight Howard, the one-time NBA champion and former Strong Group Athletics-Pilipinas center, has declined several offers to play in the 34th Dubai International Basketball Championship. The reason? His loyalty to his Filipino fans.
In a recent post on his X account, Howard stated, “I got offered to play for a couple teams in the Dubai tournament but I can’t go against my pinoy fans let’s go Strong Group!” This heartfelt message reveals the deep connection Howard forged with the Philippines during his time with the team.
Howard played a key role for SGA-Pilipinas in last year's Dubai tournament, helping them secure a second-place finish. Although head coach Charles Tiu extended an invitation for him to return this year, Howard had already committed to a prior engagement.
I got offered to play for a couple teams in the Dubai tournament but I can’t go against my pinoy fans let’s go Strong Group ! Let’s go Dray Live! let’s go Boogie ! Let’s go coach Charles ! Stay Strong 💪🏾
— Dwight Howard (@DwightHoward) January 13, 2025
Despite his absence, SGA-Pilipinas is set to field a formidable squad in the tournament. Former NBA players DeMarcus Cousins and Malachi Richardson will join the team, alongside naturalized players Andray Blatche and Angelo Kouame, and import Terry Larrier.
This news highlights the growing popularity of basketball in the Philippines and the impact that players like Howard have on the fans. Howard's decision to forgo the Dubai tournament out of respect for his Filipino supporters further solidifies his bond with the country and its passionate basketball community.
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