Orlando Magic Open Practice (12/17/11)

On Saturday December 17, 2011 Orlando FL's Amway Arena opened its doors at 10 am to welcome the Magic faithful to watch its beloved NBA team conduct an open practice session.  Following the 2011 lockout, approximately 9,000 Magic fans crowded the arena in an effort to catch a glimpse of Dwight Howard, who has been flirting with the idea of being traded to the NJ Nets, LA Lakers, or possibly the Dallas Mavericks.

The Magic cheerleaders were out in full effect, as was Stuff (Orlando's Magical dragon mascot).  With the loud speakers booming overhead, the players were introduced and Dwight Howard was promptly given a standing ovation.

 

For approximately an hour, it was A-team vs. B-team as the Magic split itself into 2 teams for a friendly scrimmage which highlighted the old-school talents of JJ Redick and Jameer Nelson, while showcasing the Magic's newest recruits Von Wafer and Larry Hughes.  All looked great.

Following the practice, Dwight remained on the court, acknowledged the crowd in a short impromptu speech.  He then spent the next 15 minutes walking the perimeter of the court signing autographs for the fans in attendance.

GO MAGIC!

Dwight Howard's Celebrity Bowling Event (11/12/11)

On Saturday November 12, 2011, Dwight Howard and several of his NBA buddies held a celebrity bowling event to benefit Howard's D-12 Foundation.

With current and former teammates, Dwight spent the night joking away with event attendees, many of whom were regular Magic fans wanting to get close to the super-ballers.

Personally, I had expected more of a crowd.  For the relatively low admission cost of $20, people had the opportunity to take photos and get autographs from Jameer Nelson, Rashard Lewis, Courtney Lee, Earl Clark, Gilbert Arenas, Matt Barnes, Trevor Ariza, Quentin Richardson, and Josh Smith (Atlanta Hawks).

Dwight greeting those in attendance

Dwight stylin'

Dwight, telling this onlooker 'how things are going to go down!'

Matt Barnes laughing it up with some of the crowd

Rashard Lewis

Dwight has a presence on the court, and in the middle of a crowd

Dwight having a good time at Boardwalk Bowl, Orlando

Dwight Howard showcasing his bowling skills

Earl Clark signing autographs with some of his fans

Matt Barnes made himself available for autographs throughout the entire night

The ladies seem to like Dwight's company

Trevor Ariza posing with one of the fans

Quentin Richardson rolling onto the scene

Dwight Howard and Josh Smith

Rashard Lewis, Matt Barnes, Trevor Ariza, and Jameer Nelson reminiscing over old times

Jameer Nelson and Dwight Howard spending some time for Orlando's youth on a Saturday night

Dwight giving his undivided attention to a young lady wanting to talk to him

Dwight sharing his views

Dwight... you are one tall man

Earl Clark having a discussion

As the sign says 'Thank you to Our Participating Celebrities'