Social Media Buzz: Dwight Howard Change of Perception

Has Dwight Howard’s interview changed people’s perception of him?

Since his departure from the Orlando Magic four years ago, Dwight Howard has been the most hated player in the league.

Following the game that saw the Oklahoma City Thunder take a 3-2 series lead over the San Antonio Spurs. The Houston Rockets all-star center was a guest analyst on TNT’s Inside the NBA Tuesday night.

Clad in his mauve suit seated alongside former Rockets Kenny Smith and Charles Barkley on the TNT panel Howard gave his most honest interview, in which he shared his opinions on why so many people dislike him.

"difference?’ said Howard “People have seen the success I had in Orlando and they see me now, and they’re probably like, ‘Man, what’s the ,” “I think I was very likable in Orlando, and the way that situation ended, I think people felt as though I’m just this bad guy — I’m all about myself, I’m a diva, I’m stuck on being ‘Dwight Howard,’ this famous basketball player. So, a lot of people say, ‘You know what? We don’t like this guy,’ and I hear that a lot.”"

Howard then addressed his current situation with the Rockets. In which he voiced his frustration about Houston’s offense, and cleared up the rumors about his disinterest with the team.

"added Howard “Disinterested? I’m always interested in winning, but sometimes, as a big, you want to feel a part of what’s going on,” “If I could go up and down the court, shoot threes, go between the legs, and do all that stuff, that would be great, but I have to rely on my teammates in certain aspects to get the ball. Now, there’s been times where I’ve been upset and I’ve taken myself out of games and situations, and that’s on me — and I have to grow and be a better player at that."

Following Howard’s interview. An abundance of critics took to social media with a whole new respect for D12.

Tons of respect to Dwight Howard for answering questions, being sincere & thoughtful.

— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) May 11, 2016

@DwightHoward Mad props for a genuine interview last night. It was eye opening to hear your thoughts. Go get em next year!

— Super Jabs (@SuperJabs) May 11, 2016

Gained a lot of respect for @DwightHoward after his interview on NBA on TNT. Think he could really help the Celtics if he opts out of Hou.

— Jimmy Riordan (@Jimb0_0) May 11, 2016

I don't know anyone who thinks Dwight Howard is a bad guy. No, he can be too nice a guy, too fun-loving, not taking bball seriously enough.

— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) May 11, 2016

However, not everyone was ready to forgive. Some took some personal jabs at Howard. Even one of his former teammates took a shot at the eight-time All-Star.

did everyone see dwight on @NBAonTNT last night?? @NBA @ESPNNBA #dwighthoward @HoustonRockets #rockets #NBAPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/4guDOO4DA2

— Jonathan Mitchell (@jems8710) May 11, 2016

I can't take anything Dwight Howard says seriously if he's gonna sit there and tell the world he hasn't thought about if he's opting out.

— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) May 11, 2016

@iambigbaby11 lol…

— Chris Colburn (@Chris_topher_10) May 11, 2016

Although there are countless rumors about his potential departure, Howard said he has not made a decision on opting in or out of his current contract. However, despite the poor relationship between him and James Harden this season surprisingly he still believes that the Beard and himself can still win a title together.

On TNT Dwight Howard said he and James Harden can play well together. #Rockets pic.twitter.com/BUCbDG4wqQ

— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) May 11, 2016

D12’s never given up attitude with Harden may have given him new life in Clutch City. So much so, one Rocket fan thinks Howard should stay and continue what he started in Houston.

I lowkey want Dwight to stay in the H. Last year was just a bad year.

— 6ft Point God. (@JeffJumpshot) May 11, 2016

While people have changed their perception of him, of course, the “Original Superman” would not allow Howard to leave without a little troll.

@DwightHoward hey dude ,you bet not be fartin in my seat. You kno u need to be over in the CHARLES (NO RING BARKLEY )section #hardenshoot

— SHAQ (@SHAQ) May 11, 2016

As a fan, I am hoping that Dwight Howard returns to Houston next season. Unfortunately, that seems like a long shot. Regardless if he stays or goes, I will be rooting for Howard all the way.

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