Historic Induction Ceremony Set for September 2025

The Basketball Hall of Fame has revealed that NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal will have the honor of presenting Dwight Howard during the enshrinement ceremony for the Class of 2025, taking place over the weekend of September 5-6. Howard, a dominant force in basketball, is set to be inducted alongside other notable figures, including Carmelo Anthony, Sue Bird, Maya Moore, Sylvia Fowles, Billy Donovan, Micky Arison, and Danny Crawford.

Dwight Howard's Stellar Career

At 39 years old, Howard boasts an impressive resume marked by eight All-Star selections and three Defensive Player of the Year awards. He also earned five All-NBA first-team selections, highlighting his prowess as both a dominant defensive player and scoring threat. Howard's time with the Orlando Magic defined his career, where he led the franchise to five playoff appearances and an NBA Finals berth. Despite changes in teams later in his career, including stints with the Los Angeles Lakers, Houston Rockets, Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets, Washington Wizards, and Philadelphia 76ers, his legacy as a Hall of Famer was never in doubt.

O'Neal and Howard: A Legacy of Dominance

It's particularly fitting that Shaquille O'Neal will introduce Howard at the ceremony, as both players share a unique connection through their time with the Orlando Magic. O'Neal, who spent his initial four seasons with the franchise, helped create an exciting team in the early 1990s alongside Penny Hardaway. Howard, the top overall pick in the 2004 NBA draft, has often been seen as O'Neal's spiritual successor, continuing the legacy of success for the Magic. Both players reached the NBA Finals with the franchise, though each fell short of claiming the championship.

As Howard prepares for this prestigious honor, fans can look forward to a memorable ceremony that celebrates two of the NBA's greatest big men.