Dwight Howard’s funny pregame speech had a ‘300’ theme (Video)

For the first time in a while, Dwight Howard seemed to have his joking spirit back.

The Los Angeles Lakers center has constantly been asked about taking on a greater leadership role with the team since Kobe Bryant got hurt. He was asked by the media Wednesday if he was going to give the team a motivational speech before its critical game against the Houston Rockets.

Howard brushed aside the comments by saying the team already knows what’s at stake. However, with enough prodding, the center acted out an exaggerated version of a speech by channeling the movie “300.”

“Kobe is watching us at home,” Howard said. “Dr Buss is watching us up high! Let’s let it out tonight! Everything we got! Everything! Leave it on the floor! Pau, put your big boy pants on! Dwight, hit your free throws! Jodie, hit those threes boy! Now let’s get it! Now let’s bring it in! Hoorah!”

Howard then closed out the speech by bellowing, “This is Sparta!” which was the cry of Leonidas, King of Sparta, when he declined peace with the Persians in the epic movie.

It was quite the theatrical performance from someone who has long been known for his impersonations and joking ways.

The Lakers need a win or Utah Jazz loss to clinch a playoff spot in the Western Conference.