Howard to continue basketball career in Taiwan

Dwight Howard’s next basketball home will be overseas.

The eight-time All-Star big man announced Monday night that he has signed to play with the Taoyuan Leopards, a professional team in Taiwan.

“I am so so excited, and I can’t wait to touch down in Taiwan and start playing,” Howard said as part of a social media post by the team.

“I’m coming with open arms, with big hugs and big smiles.”

Howard, who turns 37 next month, was a free agent after spending last season with the Los Angeles Lakers, averaging 6.2 points and 5.9 rebounds in 16.2 minutes per game. The first overall pick in the 2004 NBA draft, Howard spent 18 seasons in the league, a tenure that included stints with the Orlando Magic, Houston Rockets, Charlotte Hornets, Atlanta Hawks, Washington Wizards and Philadelphia 76ers. He has career averages of 15.7 points, 11.8 rebounds and 1.8 blocks.

The Leopards play in Taiwan’s T1 League.