Dwight Howard’s All-Star weekend has been incredibly busy. The fans, media and corporate sponsors all want a piece of the five-time All-Star. With so many obligations to fulfill Howard will really have to be “Superman.” The original Man of Steel, however, was probably able to get more sleep than the 25-year-old star that’s taking the moniker to new heights.
“I’ll probably get 10 hours of sleep the whole weekend,” Howard said. “I’ll be doing a lot of work, but it’s a lot of fun. I’ll get a nice break this summer after we get to the Finals.”
Having so much to do during the weekend isn’t a bad thing. Howard has worked to make himself one of the world’s most recognizable athletes. That notoriety has him making an appearance on Jay Leno, several appearances for Adidas and a guest analyst spot for TNT.
Howard has embraced his stardom, but understands that much of this is possible because of the support of his many fans.
“I’m just enjoying myself and showing the fans how much I appreciate them for voting me into the game,” Howard said. “I’m thankful that I’ve been included in the All-Star weekend every year of my career. I thank God and the fans because it means a lot to me.”
Dominant players often expect to make the All-Star team. Because the expectation is to hear their names called, the excitement tends to fade after the first few years.
Howard is different.
The experience hasn’t faded at all for the All-Star center. In fact, it seems to get more special for him with each passing year.
“Each year it gets more exciting for me and I’m a little more thankful,” he said. “I could be sitting at home wishing I was an All-Star. I have an opportunity to put on a show for the fans and I really appreciate that.”
That appreciation will translate to a great effort in the game.
Howard won’t go out and try to win the All-Star MVP award. While the individual honor would be nice, it’s not a goal he’s set for himself. He will, however, go out and put on a show that will satisfy the fans.
“You may see a couple of threes and I’m definitely going to bring the ball up the court,” Howard said.
“I’m not looking for an individual awards,” Howard said. “It’s all about having fun and putting on a show for the fans. I’m only focused on one award and that’s the championship. That comes with the Magic, not the East All-Stars. I just want to go out there and give the fans a great show.”
