Dwight Howard to be inducted into Magic Hall of Fame

Dwight Howard will be inducted into the Orlando Magic Hall of Fame on March 24, the team announced Thursday.

Howard will be honored prior to the Magic's contest against the Los Angeles Lakers later that evening.

The Magic selected Howard with the first pick in the 2004 NBA Draft. He eventually grew into an eight-time All-Star, with six selections coming in Orlando from 2007-2012. He made All-NBA first team for five straight seasons, including a unanimous selection in 2010.

Known for his defensive prowess, Howard is the only player in NBA history to win three consecutive Defensive Player of the Year awards, claiming the trophy between 2009-2011. He led the league in blocks in 2009 and 2010.

The Magic peaked with Howard in 2009, reaching the NBA Finals. Orlando eventually lost to the Lakers in five games. He was traded to L.A. in 2012 after having a public falling-out with the organization.

Howard ended his Magic tenure as the franchise leader in numerous categories, including points (11,435), rebounds (8,072), blocks (1,344), and minutes played (22,471). He averaged 18.4 points, 13 rebounds, 2.2 blocks, 1.5 assists, and a steal for the franchise across 621 contests.

Dennis Scott was the last player to be inducted into the team's Hall of Fame in 2023.