MEMPHIS, TN - FEBRUARY 29: Dwight Howard #39 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on February 29, 2020 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2020 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)Joe Murphy/Getty Images

Lakers' Dwight Howard Says Mother of Son Died Nearly 6 Weeks Ago

Paul KasabianMay 15, 2020

Los Angeles Lakers center Dwight Howard told reporters in a video conference call Friday that the mother of his six-year-old son died a month-and-a-half ago, per Mark Medina of USA Today.

According to Greg Beacham of the Associated Press, Howard said she had epilepsy and died of a fatal seizure. The 16-year veteran is currently with his son back home in Georgia.

Per Medina, Howard had kept in touch with his son's mother and attended her funeral.

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Howard, who also said he is training in Georgia with the NBA suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, said the tragedy has caused him to "just be grateful for life," per ESPN's Dave McMenamin.

Howard, who has five children, said he's been focused on providing support for his son, per Lakers reporter Mike Trudell.

The eight-time All-Star and five-time All-NBA First Team member also discussed what he's doing in Georgia on a daily basis, which includes spending time with all five of his kids and staying in shape.