Paolo Banchero praised his team’s composure after the Orlando Magic overcame a 15-0 start by the Miami Heat to secure a 117-108 NBA Cup quarterfinal victory on Tuesday at Kia Center.
Banchero credited the team’s ability to stay patient and “keep our process good” for the comeback, emphasizing that once the Magic closed the gap, they believed a win was within reach. He contributed 18 points and seven rebounds while helping orchestrate a balanced offense that saw six players finish in double figures.
Desmond Bane matched his season-high with 37 points, setting the tone early in the fourth quarter with two 3-pointers and a three-point play to stretch Orlando’s lead to 96-83. Banchero described Bane as “more than just a shooter” and praised his ability to carry the offense while creating opportunities for teammates.
Reflecting on Franz Wagner’s high ankle sprain on Sunday, Banchero said the team was “glad that it wasn’t season-ending” and used the experience as motivation. He emphasized the group’s unity, noting that everyone contributed to maintain momentum despite the early deficit.
Banchero highlighted the NBA Cup format as a positive early-season test, noting it “ups the intensity” and simulates playoff conditions. He welcomed the chance to advance to Las Vegas, calling it a “fun environment” and a chance to test the team’s chemistry in high-stakes matchups.
On facing Miami multiple times this season, Banchero said the repeated matchups build a natural rivalry and bring a playoff-like atmosphere to early-season games. He emphasized the importance of ball movement and everyone taking their opportunities, adding that Bane’s performance allowed other players to flourish.
The Magic shot 46.9% from three and 51% overall, with Wendell Carter Jr. adding 14 points and 10 rebounds while Anthony Black contributed 10 points and seven assists. Orlando’s bench extended the advantage, outscoring Miami’s reserves 31-18 and dominating the glass 47-39.
Banchero concluded that the team’s resilience in overcoming a 15-point hole reflects their potential for deep playoff runs. “If you want to be a good team in this league, great team, you want to win deep in the playoffs, you got to be able to do things like that,” he said.
The Magic advance to face the New York Knicks in the NBA Cup semifinals on Saturday in Las Vegas, seeking their first championship appearance in the tournament’s brief history.
