Dwight Howard's admission he used Stickum Saturday night against the Hawks has brought the "grip spray" back to the limelight.
The spray's use in sport has a sticky history.
Oakland Raiders cornerback Lester Hayes notoriously had an affinity for Stickum. Reportedly introduced to the adhesive in his rookie year by Hall of Fame wide receiver Fred Biletnikoff, Hayes began spraying the substance liberally over his hands, arms and uniform.
In 1980, Hayes won a Super Bowl with the Raiders and was named defensive player of the year with 18 interceptions. The NFL banned the use of any adhesive the following year in what is famously known as the "Lester Hayes Rule."
Players, however, continued to use the substance.
Hall of Fame wide receiver Jerry Rice admitted after his retirement that he used Stickum throughout his career, claiming it was widely used by others in the league. The claim has been disputed by a number of Hall of Famers who in turn accuse Rice of cheating.
The NCAA bans the use of stick spray, football players, however, are allowed to use "sticky gloves" with rubbery surface for better grip of the ball.
In Howard's case, the All-Star center may not face disciplinary action.
The incident occurred in the first quarter of the Hawks' 109-97 victory. The AJC's Chris Vivlamore reported, Howard came to the scorer's table and liberally sprayed his hands with a substance contained in a can that was covered with white tape.
He admitted after the game he often uses grip spray.
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