The 21-year-old wing finished with 15 points, after draining the game-winning jumper and free throw.
It was an all-around effort by the streaking Magic as all starters scored in double digits, alongside three reserves. Franz Wagner, Jalen Suggs, and Moritz Wagner scored 14 points each. Wendell Carter Jr. tallied 11 points and 10 boards.PAOLO BANCHERO GAME WINNER.
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) February 25, 2024
pic.twitter.com/oYuVi6gibd
On the Pistons’ side, Cade Cunningham led Detroit with 26 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. He also tied the game with 12.4 seconds remaining before Banchero’s game-saving theatrics.
Simone Fontecchio, acquired from Utah, scored 17. Evan Fournier, acquired from the New York Knicks, had 13 points. Jalen Duren put up 16 points and 11 rebounds for Detroit, who still has the league’s worst record at 8-48.CADE TIES THE GAME.
— NBA (@NBA) February 25, 2024
12.4 seconds remaining, Orlando has the ball 👀
Magic-Pistons | Live on the NBA App
📲 https://t.co/KkTPdAwM5e pic.twitter.com/hdqZbK4391
What he said
Banchero was having an off shooting night but his teammates believed he was still the best guy to be trusted with the ball during the last seconds of the game. He has been evolving a lot this season and he owes it a lot to his teammates.
“I played terrible… I just give credit to my teammates. They lifted me up the whole game. I don’t know why I’m crying right now.”
“I played terrible… I just give credit to my teammates. They lifted me up the whole game. I don’t know why I’m crying right now.”
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 25, 2024
Paolo Banchero reflects on his game-winner against the Pistons 🙌pic.twitter.com/4vD92LZRDu
