Eight-time NBA All-Star Dwight Howard yesterday pledged to help those affected by the earthquake that devastated parts of Hualien County on April 3 by channeling some of the proceeds from merchandise sales to victims.
The quake measured 7.2 on the Richter scale.
Howard, who last played for the then-Taoyuan Leopards (now Taiwan Beer Leopards) in the T1 League about a year ago, shared his intentions on Facebook.
Photo: Tony Yao, Taipei Times
“Merchandise has been released on DH12 day, and the sales will go to relief programs for everyone affected by the earthquake in Taiwan,” he wrote. “Still praying for you all and hoping that you can stay strong in recovering from the earthquake and the aftershocks.”
The three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year said he was “currently working on something to help raise resources for those affected” and plans to return to Taiwan soon to “bring back the smiles.”
According to one of the two images attached to the post, the majority of the proceeds from sales of his products would go to those in need in Taiwan.
It is not the first time that the US “Superman” has showed concern for Taiwanese after the earthquake.
Soon after the quake, he wrote on Instagram, calling on his fans to pray for the safety of people in Taiwan.
Howard said that he could not imagine the fear and pain of those experiencing the natural disaster, adding: “I want to encourage everyone to stay strong! I love you, Taiwan.”
In his 20 games in the T1 League in the 2022-2023 season, Howard averaged 23.2 points and five assists, and led the league with 16.2 rebounds per game.
During his time in Taiwan, he also helped raise millions of New Taiwan dollars for local charities, and delivered daily necessities and toys to a charity center in New Taipei City.
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