Former NBA Star Tracy McGrady Urges Fans to “Keep It Basketball” While Reflecting on Dwight Howard’s Accomplished Career [Video]

It’s easy to think of Dwight Howard as just another retired NBA basketball star or another celeb who lives in the blogs. Over the years, critics, including Shaquille O’Neal, have commented on Howard’s career, claiming that it fell short of its potential. But, despite the negative remarks, Howard’s prime career was impressive.

Video

In a recent video, retired NBA legend Tracy McGrady reminded everyone of Howard’s skills and greatness on the court. Since Howard’s name doesn’t attract as much buzz as it used to with younger fans, McGrady says that he has no problem defending his legacy.

“Maybe some of the younger fans don’t really understand how dominant this guy was,” TMac said in the clip. “For his first eight years, Dwight Howard was a problem. Seven foot, had all the athleticism, defensively, wasn’t anybody better…Look at the numbers he was putting up; just keep it, basketball. As a basketball player, when he was in Orlando, he was that dude.”

McGrady’s post resonated with many basketball lovers, including Howard himself, who showed appreciation for it. Additionally, former NBA star Matt Barnes chimed in and added support for Howard, writing, “Facts!! on both sides of the ball.”

To give you some background info on Howard’s career, he was the Orlando Magic’s number-one draft pick in 2004 after the team traded McGrady. Howard went down in NBA history as the first and only player to snag three consecutive Defensive Player of the Year awards. He was also in the running for MVP but came in second to Derrick Rose in 2011. Unfortunately, much of Howard’s draw in recent years has been less about his talent and more about his messy personal life, with rumors surrounding his sexuality, baby mama drama, and more.