Taipei: Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Dwight Howard will return to Taiwan in September to headline a charity exhibition game organized by the New Taipei Kings and The Asian Tournament (TAT), the Kings announced Friday. The eight-time NBA All-Star is set to lead a TAT All-Star team against a Kings All-Star squad in the "Kings Heart Classic" at Xinzhuang Gymnasium in New Taipei on September 13, as per a news release by the club.

According to Focus Taiwan, the full rosters, which will include basketball players and entertainers, will be announced before the game. Howard expressed his excitement about returning to Taiwan, mentioning the passionate Taiwanese fans and his eagerness to contribute to the welfare of Taiwan's stray dogs. A portion of the proceeds from the event will be donated to PACK Taiwan, an animal welfare organization focused on improving shelter care and supporting stray dog adoption.

Before the charity game, the Kings are scheduled to play a friendly match against the Macau Black Knights, with Howard serving as a guest commentator. Additionally, a fan meet-and-greet with Howard will be organized between the two games. Howard, who became a prominent figure in Taiwan's basketball scene after joining the Taoyuan Leopards for the 2022-23 season, averaged significant points and rebounds, drawing large crowds and viewership.

Returning to Taiwan in July 2024, Howard played for the Taiwan Mustangs in the TAT, a league where he reportedly held an ownership stake. During his September 2025 induction speech at the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, Howard emphasized his strong ties to Taiwan and his efforts in establishing a league there.

Tickets for the Kings Heart Classic will be available for general sale at 6 p.m. on August 26, following a six-hour priority window for Kings season-ticket holders, as stated by the club.