Former NBA star Dwight Howard is starting a new chapter in his life, this time off the court. The 39-year-old basketball legend announced his engagement to rapper and Love and Hip Hop Atlanta star Amy Luciani in a series of heartfelt Instagram posts that sent fans into a frenzy.
Luciani revealed the news with an emotional video showing Howard admiring her diamond engagement ring in a club setting. “I was enjoying you so much out of the public eye, but here we are,” Luciani wrote in her caption. She credited Howard for encouraging her to reconnect with her faith, adding, “I prayed reallllll deep on a Thursday, not knowing 2 days later God would send me a Bible-totin’, tattooed giant with the same heart as me.”
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Howard responded in the comments with a series of loving emojis, including an infinity sign, a red heart, and a lock and key, symbolizing their unbreakable bond.
A love story in the spotlight
The couple, who had kept their romance under wraps until now, delighted fans with glimpses into their relationship. Luciani’s Instagram post included photos and videos of the couple celebrating Howard’s birthday on December 8 and attending events like the Atlanta movie screening of Den of Thieves 2, which Howard hosted.
Howard also shared his own tribute, posting photos of their night out and writing simply, “Happy,” accompanied by hashtags like #BlackLove and #PrayedForThis.
Although details about how they met remain private, the couple has been spotted together at high-profile events, including a Celsius energy drink event in Miami earlier this month.
A year of highs and challenges for Howard
2024 has been a whirlwind year for Dwight Howard. From competing on Dancing With the Stars where he became a fan favorite before his quarterfinals elimination to officiating a celebrity wedding in Madrid, the former three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year has stayed busy.
Amid his engagement, Howard was also named a first-time nominee for the 2025 Basketball Hall of Fame, a fitting recognition for his illustrious career.
As Howard and Luciani begin this exciting new chapter, fans and friends are celebrating their union as a symbol of love and resilience. Their engagement is proof that sometimes, the best things happen when the spotlight fades, and love takes center stage.
