Dwight Howard wants to play in PBA

Dwight Howard dunks during a Strong Group open practice in Makati.–STRONG GROUP PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—The Dubai International Basketball Tournament has yet to start but former NBA star Dwight Howard is already looking at the future.

Howard is keen on playing as an import in the Philippine Basketball Association, claiming that he meets the league’s height limit for reinforcements which is 6-foot-9 without shoes in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup.

The Strong Group import also suggested the PBA should change the height requirement so that he and fellow ex-NBA veteran Andray Blatche could both play in the league.

“I’m eligible for the PBA so I think they have to change the height requirement,” said the five-time All-NBA First Team member in jest during Strong Group’s open practice on Wednesday in Makati.

“I’m 6’9 without shoes so… hopefully, they do that so guys like Dray (Blatche) can come over there and play as well. I know he’s been wanting to play here in the PBA league. If they’ll change the height requirement, maybe we’ll see twin towers in the Philippines.”

Dwight Howard.–STRONG GROUP PHOTO

Howard was listed at 6-foot-10 in the NBA but the three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year said that’s because he was measured with shoes on.

The 38-year-old Howard, who is very active on social media, posted a video on his Instagram having his height measured at the grocery store here in the country.

His possible PBA stint, however, will have to wait with Howard expected to lead Strong Group in the Dubai tilt which runs from January 19 to 28.

“Basketball is basketball. Wherever you play, it doesn’t matter. Obviously, people have a different experience when they start playing in the Philippines and in other countries but I’ve been playing for so long, I’ve seen many different styles and players so for me, basketball is simply basketball,” said Howard.

Howard, who last played in Taiwan, also said it wasn’t hard to decide and play for a Philippine team.

“What made me say yes? At first, I thought it was Jollibee but no, it’s the fans… It’s the perfect time to be here, I’ve always enjoyed the Filipino fans, I have some Filipino friends in the States, so being able to come here and represent the Philippines is a great honor and I take pride in it.”

“I’ve been here before. I came here with the Rockets (in 2013) and just to see the passion these fans have in basketball and life in general is very heartwarming.”