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Reading: Stephen A. Smith Says NBA Teams Didn’t Sign Dwight Howard Because Of Sexual Assault Case
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Home > NBA News & Analysis > Stephen A. Smith Says NBA Teams Didn’t Sign Dwight Howard Because Of Sexual Assault Case

Stephen A. Smith Says NBA Teams Didn’t Sign Dwight Howard Because Of Sexual Assault Case

Stephen A. Smith discusses the shocking sexual assault allegations against Dwight Howard and their potential impact on NBA teams' hesitancy to sign him.

Vishwesha Kumar
Oct 26, 2023
6 Min Read
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Credit: Fadeaway World

Stephen A. Smith expressed his shock and disbelief at the details of the sexual assault allegations against Dwight Howard during a recent podcast.  Smith went on to speculate that the sexual assault allegations might be a key reason why NBA teams have been hesitant to sign Dwight Howard. He pointed out that while he wouldn’t accuse or incriminate any specific teams, the situation surrounding Howard seemed to be a deterrent for potential suitors.

Contents
  • Dwight Howard Denies All Sexual Assualt Allegations 
  • Dwight Howard Fires Back At Haters 

“That’s why teams didn’t want you. Whether they would admit it or not, and I’m not going to mention teams because I don’t want to incriminate anybody or accuse anybody or something I simply don’t know, I’m guessing. But I’m saying is – that’s the first thought that came to my mind: that’s why they don’t want him.” (7:45)

Smith suggested that it’s hard to fathom that an NBA team would consider bringing in a player of Howard’s defensive prowess and then back away due to ongoing legal issues. He emphasized the importance of NBA teams conducting thorough investigations and how the outcome of such inquiries could impact a player’s chances of being signed.

While emphasizing that he respects people’s right to live their lives as they choose, Smith struggled with the specifics of the case, especially because he was familiar with the individual involved. Dwight Howard’s future in the NBA remains uncertain as the sexual assault case continues, and the allegations appear to be a significant factor affecting his ability to make a comeback in the league.


Dwight Howard Denies All Sexual Assualt Allegations 

Dwight Howard has strongly denied all sexual assault allegations made against him by a man named Stephen Harper. Through his lawyer, Howard issued a statement refuting the accusations, asserting that all actions that took place during the encounter were consensual.

According to reports, Harper claimed that Howard forced him into a sexual encounter in July 2021, which included a third person, with a demand for a threesome. The detailed account alleged non-consensual sexual acts performed by Howard on Harper, leading to a legal battle with blurred lines of consent.

Howard’s lawyer maintained that all parties involved willingly agreed to engage in consensual sexual activity. The allegations could have significant implications for Howard’s career, as it looks increasingly unlikely that he will find an NBA team to sign with for the current season, given the seriousness of the accusations.

The former NBA champion was reportedly in the running for a contract with the Golden State Warriors, but the recent allegations may have affected his prospects. The Memphis Grizzlies, another potential destination, may also steer clear of the situation due to the potential legal ramifications Howard could face.

This case adds to Howard’s recent legal troubles, including a lawsuit over unpaid wages and another for a car accident. The outcome of this legal battle remains uncertain, and it casts a shadow over his future in professional basketball.


Dwight Howard Fires Back At Haters 

Dwight Howard has responded to the criticism and backlash he’s received on social media following the recent sexual assault allegations against him. In a video message, Howard appears to be mocking those who are quick to pass judgment and criticize him based on these allegations.

The timing and tone of Howard’s response have raised some eyebrows, as many believe this is a serious matter that should be handled with sensitivity and care. Some argue that it may have been wiser for Howard to address the situation more seriously and privately while awaiting further developments on the allegations.

Dwight Howard responds to the haters pic.twitter.com/l7eX7MeljK

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) October 26, 2023

Before these allegations came to light, Howard was on the verge of making an NBA return, with the Golden State Warriors being a potential destination. However, the Warriors decided not to sign him, leading to speculation about whether the team had prior knowledge of the impending allegations.

While Dwight Howard is undoubtedly an NBA legend known for his on-court accomplishments, these allegations could have a lasting impact on his reputation and legacy. The seriousness of the situation suggests that a measured and thoughtful response may be more appropriate in addressing the allegations and the public’s concerns.

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TAGGED:Dwight HowardStephen A. Smith
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ByVishwesha Kumar
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Vishwesha Kumar is a staff writer for Fadeaway World from Bengaluru, India. Graduating with a Bachelor of Technology from PES University in 2020, Vishwesha leverages his analytical skills to enhance his sports journalism, particularly in basketball. His experience includes writing over 3000 articles across respected publications such as Essentially Sports and Sportskeeda, which have established him as a prolific figure in the sports writing community.Vishwesha’s love for basketball was ignited by watching LeBron James, inspiring him to delve deeply into the nuances of the game. This personal passion translates into his writing, allowing him to connect with readers through relatable narratives and insightful analyses. He holds a unique and controversial opinion that Russell Westbrook is often underrated rather than overrated. Despite Westbrook's flaws, Vishwesha believes that his triple-double achievements and relentless athleticism are often downplayed, making him one of the most unique and electrifying players in NBA history, even if his style of play can sometimes be polarizing. 
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