Former Magic star opens up
Dwight Howard talks about death of his son’s mother
Los Angeles Lakers center and former Orlando Magic star Dwight Howard told reporters Friday the mother of his 6-year-old son died nearly six weeks ago.
Howard, who was a sixtime all-star during his eight seasons with the Magic from 2004 to 2012, revealed the news during a videoconference with reporters. Howard said she had epilepsy and died from a seizure, according to the Associated Press’ Greg Beacham.
Howard is in his hometown of Atlanta and with his son. Howard has been training in Georgia with the NBA season suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic.
According to USA Today’s Mark Medina, Howard stayed in touch with his son’s mother and attended her funeral. Howard said her death caused him to “just be grateful for life,” according to ESPN’s Dave
McMenamin.
Sports Illustrated reported in 2017 that Howard had five children, all with different mothers. In the article, Howard said he maintained close relationships with all his kids.
“It’s a tough situation, obviously,” Howard told SI. “I should have been more responsible. I messed up. I sinned. But I won’t look at any of them as a mistake. They’re all a blessing to me.”
The Magic made Howard the No. 1 overall pick in the 2004 draft. Five years later he helped lead the team to the NBA Finals, where the Magic lost to Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers in six games.
In 62 games this season, Howard is averaging 7.5 points and 7.4 rebounds for the Lakers.