Paolo Banchero

SOURCE SPORTS: Paolo Banchero Erupts for Career-High 50 Points, Leads Magic to Historic Victory

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Issac Baldizon/NBAE via Getty Images

One week into his third NBA season, 21-year-old Paolo Banchero is already showcasing remarkable growth, hinting at a new level of play. On Monday, Banchero made franchise history with a career-high 50 points in the Orlando Magic’s thrilling 119-115 victory over the Indiana Pacers. He scored 37 points in the first half alone and tied the Magic record for most points in a half, matching Tracy McGrady’s 2003 feat.

Banchero finished the night with an impressive 16-of-26 shooting, adding 13 rebounds, nine assists, and two blocks. His stellar first-half performance also placed him in elite company, becoming just the third player since 1997-98 to tally at least 35 points, five rebounds, and five assists in a half, joining James Harden and Donovan Mitchell.

“That was a magical 1st half for sure … felt like I was in an open gym back at home just working on my game.”

Entering the fourth quarter with 40 points, Banchero capped off his record night with free throws, hitting his 50th point with 10.3 seconds left. This performance makes him the youngest Magic player to score 50, surpassing Shaquille O’Neal’s previous record.

In the win, Banchero joined Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as the only players since 1973-74 to post 50+ points, 13+ rebounds, nine assists, and two blocks in a single game.

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SOURCE SPORTS: Paolo Banchero Debuts Air Jordan 39 During Game 1 of Playoffs

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NBA powerhouse Paolo Banchero made a statement on the court during Game 1 of the first round of the NBA Playoffs by debuting the unreleased Air Jordan 39 shoe. Infused with Michael Jordan’s signature style of play, the Air Jordan 39 was designed to elevate athletes’ game experience with new technology that enhanced their ability to change directions.

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Crafted as the ultimate hybrid of speed and flight, the Air Jordan 39 boasted performance benefits for staying low to the ground and swift directional shifts. It introduced full-length Nike ZoomX foam to Jordan Brand basketball shoes, providing an impressive 85% energy return and a propulsive, cushioned feel. Additionally, the sneaker featured a herringbone traction pattern, enhancing quickness and control on the court.

“It’s an honor to represent the Jordan family in wearing the Air Jordan 39s for our first playoff series of my career,” said Banchero. “MJ’s legacy is rooted in historic playoff performances, and to have the opportunity to honor that in unveiling the 39’s is truly special for me.” – Paolo Banchero

Banchero’s selection to debut the Air Jordan 39 underscored his status as a rising star in the NBA, and fans witnessed an electrifying performance as he showcased the cutting-edge design and performance capabilities of this highly anticipated sneaker.

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The post SOURCE SPORTS: Paolo Banchero Debuts Air Jordan 39 During Game 1 of Playoffs appeared first on The Source.

SOURCE SPORTS: Orlando Magic Selects Duke’s Paolo Banchero with No. 1 Pick

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Leading up to the NBA Draft, it was believed the Orlando Magic would use the No. 1 pick to pick Jabari Smith Jr. from Auburn. Instead, they swerved the basketball world and selected Paolo Banchero of Duke.

The No. 2 pick, going to the Oklahoma City Thunder, was Gonzaga Center Chet Holmgren, and Smith Jr. would fall to the Houston Rockets at no. 3.

“I had a feeling, from the information I was being told, that it was just kind of up in the air,” Banchero said to ESPN. “Orlando wasn’t really sure yet, and just to be ready for whatever.

“I didn’t find out, though, that I was actually getting picked until about 20 seconds before the commissioner got on the stage. I didn’t even have time to really think about it or anything. It just kind of happened. I can’t believe it, but I’m ready. I’m ready.”

During his final season at Duke, Banchero averaged 17.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.2 assists. He now joins a young core that features Jalen Suggs, Cole Anthony, Franz Wagner, and Wendell Carter Jr. All players, except Carter Jr., were drafted by the Magic.

To round out the top five, The Sacramento Kings drafted Keegan Murray, and Detroit added Purdue guard Jaden Ivey to their young core.

There were plenty of Draft Night trades. The New York Knicks sent Kemba Walker to the Detroit Pistons, who are expected to buy the guard out. The Philadelphia 76ers traded Danny Green and the No. 23 pick to the Memphis Grizzlies for De’Anthony Melton.

You can get a full recap of the NBA Draft here.

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