Atlanta native Dwight Howard had a career like few others. The Basketball Hall of Fame took notice

In this March 29, 2017, file photo, Atlanta Hawks' Dwight Howard prepares to shoot a free throw during the team's NBA basketball game against the Philadelphia 76ers in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum, File)

All Dwight Howard urges his doubters to do is this: look at the numbers. They tell the story, he insists. The Atlanta native and Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy graduate averaged 15.7 points and 11.8 rebounds per game. Only 13 other players in the history of the NBA have posted those for a career.

They all made the Hall of Fame.

“So, why not me?” Howard asked.