Paolo Banchero has quietly emerged as one of the NBA’s rising stars in recent seasons. Despite the Orlando Magic dealing with numerous injuries and challenges this year, Banchero helped guide them to a seventh-place finish in the Eastern Conference, securing the No. 7 seed for the playoffs.
On Tuesday, the Magic dominated the Atlanta Hawks 120-95 in the play-in tournament. While Banchero struggled with his shot, hitting just 4-of-13 from the field, he made up for it with nine rebounds and seven assists.
During the regular season, Banchero averaged an impressive 25.9 points per game, joining elite company as just the third player in Magic history—alongside Hall of Famers Shaquille O’Neal and Tracy McGrady—to average at least 25 points in a full season.
His former college, Duke, celebrated the milestone by reposting the Magic’s original announcement on X.
Though Banchero isn’t the most efficient shooter for a forward, he’s become a dominant presence inside and has broadened his overall game, contributing 7.5 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game this season.
He’s the clear leader of a Magic squad that’s gaining traction in the East thanks to its defense-first mentality, slow-paced offense, and focus on protecting the rim.
Orlando led the league in blocks during the regular season with 6.0 per game, and Banchero chipped in with 0.6 blocks a night.
Back in his single season at Duke, he posted 17.2 points and 7.8 rebounds per game, earned All-ACC First Team honors, and was named ACC Rookie of the Year.
