Dwight Howard's Shocking 'Dancing With The Stars' Journey: 5 Major Takeaways From The NBA Star's Dance Floor Debut

Former NBA superstar Dwight Howard made one of the most unexpected career pivots in recent memory when he traded his basketball sneakers for ballroom shoes, joining the cast of *Dancing with the Stars* (DWTS). As of December 2025, his time on the show remains a captivating subject, demonstrating the athlete's versatility and willingness to embrace new challenges outside of his dominant 18-season run in the National Basketball Association. His decision to participate, which he later called the "best decision" of his life, offered fans a rare glimpse into the charismatic, fun-loving personality behind the "Superman" moniker.

The journey, however, was not without its drama. Paired with professional dancer Daniella Karagach, the duo quickly became a fan-favorite for their impressive chemistry and Howard's surprisingly nimble footwork for a man of his stature. Despite consistent improvement and a clear passion for the art of dance, their time on the show was cut short in a surprising elimination during a milestone episode, leaving many viewers—and Howard himself—tearful.

Dwight Howard: Complete NBA Career and Biography Profile

Dwight David Howard II is one of the most decorated and dominant centers of his generation. His transition from the basketball court to the ballroom floor was a dramatic shift, but his professional biography is defined by his powerhouse career in the NBA.

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• Full Name: Dwight David Howard II
• Born: December 8, 1985
• Birth Place: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
• Nickname: "Superman"
• Height: 6 ft 10 in (2.08 m)
• NBA Draft: 1st overall pick in the 2004 NBA draft by the Orlando Magic.

Major NBA Career Highlights and Awards:

• NBA Champion: 2020 (with the Los Angeles Lakers)
• NBA All-Star: 8-time selection (2007–2014)
• All-NBA Team: 8-time honoree (5x First Team, 1x Second Team, 2x Third Team)
• NBA Defensive Player of the Year: 3-time winner (2009–2011)
• NBA All-Defensive Team: 5-time selection (4x First Team, 1x Second Team)
• NBA Rebounding Champion: 5-time winner
• NBA Blocks Champion: 2-time winner
• NBA All-Rookie Team: 2004–05

Howard's career began with the Orlando Magic, where he led the team to the 2009 NBA Finals. He later played for several other teams, including the Houston Rockets, Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets, Washington Wizards, and Philadelphia 76ers, before winning his championship ring with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020. This extensive, high-pressure career provided the foundation of discipline he brought to the DWTS stage.

The Partnership: Dwight Howard and Daniella Karagach

The success of any celebrity on *Dancing with the Stars* hinges on their professional partner, and Dwight Howard was paired with one of the show's most talented and creative pros: Daniella Karagach.

The pairing was notable for its significant height difference—Howard stands at 6'10", while Karagach is considerably shorter—a logistical challenge that is common on the show but often difficult to overcome, especially in dances requiring close hold and precise footwork.

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Despite the physical hurdle, the duo, affectionately known as "Team Super D," developed a strong rapport. Karagach, known for her innovative choreography, managed to showcase Howard’s athleticism and surprising grace. Howard’s commitment to the process was evident, as he fully immersed himself in the demanding rehearsal schedule, often drawing parallels between the discipline of the NBA and the rigor of ballroom dance training.

Key Moments and The Shocking Week 8 Elimination

Dwight Howard and Daniella Karagach's run on *Dancing with the Stars* Season 33 was marked by a steady climb in performance quality and scores.

Performance Highlights and Scores

Throughout the competition, Howard proved he was more than just a big man. He successfully tackled various ballroom and Latin styles. His highest-scoring routine was a standout performance that earned him a score of 28, showcasing his peak potential on the dance floor.

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One of their most memorable dances was an Argentine Tango, which they performed as part of the show's celebration of its 500th episode. This routine required intense focus, sharp movements, and dramatic flair, all of which Howard executed with commendable precision, earning praise from the judges.

The Final Dance and Tearful Exit

The elimination of Dwight Howard and Daniella Karagach occurred during Week 8 of Season 33. This episode was a significant milestone for the show, marking its 500th broadcast, which added an extra layer of shock to the outcome.

The elimination was based on a combination of the judges' scores from the previous week and the public's votes. Ultimately, despite their strong performance, Team Super D was the pair sent home. They finished the competition in 6th place overall.

Upon his exit, Howard was visibly emotional, a testament to how deeply he had connected with the experience and his partner. In his post-elimination interviews, he spoke tearfully, revealing his "true" feelings about the journey, emphasizing that the entire experience was a positive one and that he had gained a new appreciation for the world of dance.

Dwight Howard's DWTS Legacy: A 'Best Decision'

Looking back, Dwight Howard's participation in *Dancing with the Stars* is remembered not just for his dances, but for the personal growth and new perspective it provided. He openly stated that joining the show was the "Best Decision" he had made, highlighting the transformative power of stepping outside his comfort zone.

His journey on DWTS cemented several key entities and themes for fans and critics:

• Versatility of Athletes: Howard joined a long line of sports figures who have found success on the show, proving that the discipline required in professional sports can translate to the dance world.
• The "Superman" Soft Side: The show allowed Howard to shed his on-court intensity, revealing a more vulnerable and joyous side to his personality, which resonated deeply with the audience.
• The Daniella Karagach Effect: The partnership showcased Karagach's ability to coach and choreograph for extremely tall partners, further solidifying her reputation as one of the show's top professionals.

Dwight Howard’s time on the show was a powerful reminder that reinvention is possible, even for an eight-time NBA All-Star. Although his run ended in Week 8, his dedication and memorable performances on Season 33 of *Dancing with the Stars* have left a lasting impression on the show's history.