"I just want to say thank you"- Dwight Howard expresses gratitude to Orlando fans ahead of 2025 Basketball Hall of Fame induction

Orlando Magic star Dwight Howard will be inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame on Saturday night. Before that, emotions ran high as he got ready for the greatest honor of his career. Having been drafted first in 2004, he was a force on the court.

He won hearts with his moves and talent.

Now, hours before the ceremony, he uploaded a video message and posted on the Orlando Magic official Instagram, addressing the fans and thanking them.

Dwight Howard reflects on memories with the Orlando Magic and thanks fans ahead of Hall of Fame induction

Dwight Howard, who is renowned for his strong on-court play, recently expressed his gratitude on social media for all that he has achieved so far. He further addressed his fans and said: “Orlando fans. I just want to say thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you so much for supporting me over the years. It means so much to me and my family, my kids and my legacy to have Orlando as my city…”He seemingly appreciated the experiences he had with the Orlando Magic. He further said: “I love you guys and I appreciate all the cheers, all the hugs, all the high fives, all the great memories that I've had in my career in Orlando and in the NBA. My career wouldn't have been what it was without you guys and I am deeply, deeply saddened that basketball for me has to end. But Orlando, our time together was amazing…”

He then concluded:“Nothing but the best. The years was amazing. The finals. The long days, the long practices.

It was all worth it. And to know that we did this and we got it to just all the fame together. It means the world. Peace of love and happiness to all of you. Rest in peace, rest of us..”The caption of the message read:“Dwight Howard with a message to Orlando… Watch the #25HoopClass Enshrinement Ceremony Saturday, 9/6 at 7:00pm/et on NBA TV The video showed how much this moment means to him. You could hear the weight of history in his voice, reminding fans of the shared bond…”Dwight Howard is an NBA pro. Over his eight seasons with the Orlando Magic, he averaged 18 points and 13 rebounds a game.

Exploring Dwight Howard’s career achievements and Hall of Fame legacy

The eight-time All-Star is finally being inducted into the Hall of Fame. With this honor, he will join the eight members of the class of '25. During his career, there were several successes and honors. He was named an NBA All-Star eight times and an All-NBA honored eight times, from 2007 to 2014.

In addition, he received three Defensive Player of the Year awards. When considering his strengths and weaknesses, he ranks 63rd out of the 65 greatest NBA players of all time.He also broke Magic's all-time records in points, rebounds, blocks, and minutes played during his eight-year stay with the team. Along the way, he led the Magic to the 2009 NBA Finals, and pushed them into the 2010 Eastern Conference Finals.Also read: “I’m truly appreciative”: Dwight Howard shares heartfelt message ahead of 2025 Basketball Hall of Fame announcement