The Orlando Magic secured a thrilling 104-103 victory over the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center, providing the team a much-needed boost following a recent setback against the Washington Wizards.
In a dramatic finish, the Magic once held an 18-point lead in the fourth quarter, but the Nets staged a fierce comeback. With just over a minute left, Brooklyn’s Noah Clowney narrowed the gap with a fadeaway jumper, making it a one-point game. Following a missed layup by Desmond Bane, the Nets had an opportunity to seize the lead, but a critical offensive basket interference call against Nets center Day’Ron Sharpe nullified a potential basket.
With the clock ticking down, Magic’s Paolo Banchero displayed his skills by finding Tristan da Silva for a dunk, restoring a three-point cushion for Orlando. However, rookie guard Egor Demin tied the game with a three-pointer just before time expired, forcing the matchup into overtime.
During the overtime period, Demin once again shined for the Nets, hitting a key three-pointer that momentarily put Brooklyn ahead. Yet, the Magic stood resilient, with Banchero assisting Wendell Carter Jr. for a pivotal dunk that put Orlando back in the lead, 101-100. In a nail-biting conclusion, Banchero hit a game-winning three-pointer after Anthony Black’s inbounds pass, sealing the victory.
Banchero led the way for the Magic, finishing with an impressive 30 points, 14 rebounds, and six assists. Carter Jr. contributed 20 points, while rookie Noah Penda notched a double-double with 13 points and 11 assists.
This victory is a promising sign for the Magic, as they look to build momentum and carry this energy into their next game against the Philadelphia 76ers. The match is set for Friday at 7 p.m. ET at the Kia Center in Orlando, and fans can catch the action on FanDuel Sports Network or via NBA League Pass.