Dwight Howard, one of the most dominant centers in NBA history, has amassed a net worth of $140 million as of 2025. Known for his incredible athleticism, rebounding prowess, and shot-blocking abilities, Howard’s financial and professional success has been the result of a long, high-profile career across multiple NBA teams and international leagues.
Early Life and Path to the NBA
Born on December 8, 1985, in Atlanta, Georgia, Dwight David Howard is currently 39 years old. Raised in a Christian household, he was deeply influenced by his parents’ involvement in basketball—his father served as the athletic director at Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy, and his mother was a former college basketball player. Howard took to the sport early, setting the goal at age nine to become the NBA’s No. 1 draft pick.
He attended Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy, where he played as a power forward and quickly rose to national prominence. By his senior year, he was named the Gatorade National Player of the Year, the Naismith Prep Player of the Year, and the McDonald’s National High School Player of the Year. Forgoing college, Howard entered the 2004 NBA Draft straight out of high school—and achieved his childhood dream when he was selected first overall by the Orlando Magic.
NBA Career and Team Journey
Howard wasted no time making his mark. In his rookie season, he started all 82 games and became the youngest player in NBA history to average a double-double. He was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team and was instrumental in helping rebuild a struggling Magic franchise.
Over the years, Howard became a defensive juggernaut and three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year. In the 2008-2009 season, he led the Magic to the NBA Finals, although they lost to the Los Angeles Lakers. Despite his personal success, frustrations with the team’s championship prospects led him to seek a trade.
In 2012, he joined the Lakers, though his debut season was hampered by a back injury. His performance was inconsistent, and his stint was marred by criticism from fans and media alike. Becoming a free agent in 2013, he signed with the Houston Rockets.
Howard teamed up with James Harden in Houston but faced injuries and chemistry issues. He played three seasons there before brief stints with the Atlanta Hawks (2016), Charlotte Hornets (2017), and Washington Wizards (2018). He returned to the Lakers in 2019 and played a vital role off the bench, helping the team win the 2020 NBA Championship.
Over his career, Howard also had a third stint with the Lakers in 2021-2022. Following that, he took his talents overseas and played internationally, continuing to entertain fans globally.
Salary, Contracts, and Career Earnings
Dwight Howard’s peak earning years came during his time with the Lakers, Rockets, and Hawks. In 2013, the Lakers offered him a five-year deal worth $118 million, which he declined to sign with Houston. In 2016, he rejected a $23 million contract with the Rockets to accept a three-year, $70 million deal from the Atlanta Hawks.
Howard earned $247 million in NBA salaries alone throughout his career. His endorsement deals—including partnerships with Adidas, McDonald’s, and T-Mobile—added approximately $100 million to his income. At one point, he was earning over $30 million per year from salary and endorsements combined.
One notable contract came in 2019 when the Lakers structured a unique deal: Howard would be paid $14,490 for each day he remained on the team’s roster, a low-risk contract to manage potential injury concerns. If injured before the season started, the team was only liable for $6,000.
Personal Life and Family
Off the court, Dwight Howard’s personal life has drawn considerable public interest. He is the father of five children with five different women. His relationship with Royce Reed, one of the mothers of his children, became public due to a legal dispute. In 2010, he filed a defamation lawsuit against Reed after she violated a court order prohibiting her from mentioning him in the media. Reed’s appearance on Basketball Wives and her comments on social media led to financial penalties.
In 2014, Howard faced child abuse allegations after reportedly disciplining his son with a belt. He claimed he had used similar methods to those used on him as a child. After a thorough investigation, the charges were ultimately dropped.
Legacy and Later Career
Dwight Howard’s legacy is defined by his dominance during the 2000s and early 2010s. He is a multiple-time All-Star, slam dunk contest winner, and an Olympic gold medalist. His rebounding records, shot-blocking stats, and all-around defensive impact solidified him as one of the premier big men of his generation.
After concluding his NBA career, Howard has remained involved in basketball through appearances, international games, and mentoring younger players. Though often a polarizing figure, his longevity and contributions to the sport remain undeniable.
Real Estate and Investments
Howard has invested in several properties and business ventures over the years. His real estate portfolio includes homes in Georgia and Florida, reflecting his interest in long-term financial security outside of basketball. He has also been vocal about financial literacy and often encourages young athletes to plan wisely for the future.
