Updated: May 26, 2012, 8:38 am ET

Howard Denies Having Any Part in Firing

By HOOPSWORLD
Basketball News & NBA Rumors

Orlando Magic superstar Dwight Howard says he had NOTHING to do with the team’s decision to fire head coach Stan Van Gundy … telling TMZ, “I hate to see anyone lose their job.”

Howard — who’s still rehabbing from back surgery in L.A. — was out in Beverly Hills this morning when we asked how he felt about his coach’s recent termination.

“Me and Stan … we had our ups and downs … but for the most part we had one goal … to win a championship in Orlando, but we fell short.”

When asked about speculation that he had a role in the decision to can Stan, Howard told us, “I’m glad [Orlando Magic CEO Alex Martins] confirmed I had nothing to do with it.

via TMZ.com video

Your comments are important to us, so please share your thoughts. We will be rolling out prizes and giveaways for our active Commenters. Please keep the comments above board and respectful to everyone and you could win some great stuff from us at HOOPSWORLD.