Banchero completes clutch three-point play to push Magic past Pistons

All-Star Paolo Banchero lived up to his billing, completing the final three-point play to give the Orlando Magic a 112-109 victory over the Detroit Pistons Sunday (PHL).

The 21-year-old wing finished with 15 points, after draining the game-winning jumper and free throw.

PAOLO BANCHERO GAME WINNER.

pic.twitter.com/oYuVi6gibd

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) February 25, 2024

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.

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.

CADE TIES THE GAME.

12.4 seconds remaining, Orlando has the ball 👀

Magic-Pistons | Live on the NBA App
📲 https://t.co/KkTPdAwM5e pic.twitter.com/hdqZbK4391

— NBA (@NBA) February 25, 2024

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. 

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.”

Paolo Banchero reflects on his game-winner against the Pistons 🙌pic.twitter.com/4vD92LZRDu

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 25, 2024