Whether it's damage control, a healing process or simply doing the right thing, Josh Howard took Step 1 Monday, calling himself an "idiot" for his videotaped disparagement of the national anthem.
I know that's not me," he said. "I love this country. If it wasn't for this country, I wouldn't be out here playing basketball. For me to have that opportunity is the greatest.
"That's not me. That's not Josh Howard. That was an idiot."
Howard was speaking to media members for the first time since his July rant at a charity event. When "The Star-Spangled Banner" was playing, he said that he doesn't celebrate the song because he's black. The video eventually made it onto YouTube.
On the eve of training camp, he said he wished he could retract those words, and that he looks forward to being able to show fans who have clamored for the Mavericks to get rid of him that he is not a bad guy.
"I apologize to everybody I've offended," the 6-7 forward said. "I'm upset with myself and the way I've acted. It was just me joking around. I just wasn't using my head. I learned that words really do hurt and you are held accountable for what you said.
"I went to military school. I have friends that serve in the military. I know how it is to wake up and salute the flag. In the national anthem every game, I have my hand over my heart. It was just me not thinking."
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