The Orlando Magic have announced their determination to become contenders in the 2025-26 NBA season, a vision reinforced by their trade acquisition of Desmond Bane. While teammates Franz Wagner and Jalen Suggs contribute significantly, it is Paolo Banchero, the team‘s rising star, who inspires the franchise’s confidence in this new core.
Banchero’s Impact on the Court Despite Limited Appearances
Standing 6-foot-10, Paolo Banchero has firmly positioned himself as a premier player in the NBA. Although injuries limited him to 46 regular-season games, he averaged a strong 25.9 points per game. His influence extends into the playoffs, where in 12 games, he has escalated his performance to average 28 points and 8.5 rebounds while shooting 44.7% from the field, clearly showing he excels under postseason pressure.
A Work Ethic That Sets Banchero Apart
The growing expectations surrounding Banchero have not deterred him; instead, they fuel his drive. Former NBA player Austin Rivers, who has closely observed Banchero’s development, praised his dedication and routine. Rivers highlighted on the Off Guard podcast that Banchero invested in a large home in Orlando equipped with a gym to maintain constant training.
“He has an extreme work ethic and he loves his craft,”
—Austin Rivers, Former NBA Player
“He purposely bought a house a huge house here in Orlando that had a gym so he could always be in the gym.”
—Austin Rivers, Former NBA Player
Humility and Character Shine Beyond Banchero’s Athleticism
Rivers, with deep ties to Orlando from his father Doc Rivers’ coaching tenure, emphasized that Banchero’s humility distinguishes him just as much as his talent. He remarked on Banchero’s rare character after personal conversations, underscoring that humility is a defining aspect of the young forward’s identity.
“Forget how good he is as a basketball player. I’ve gotten to talk to him and there’s a level of humility with this kid that you just don’t see,”
—Austin Rivers, Former NBA Player
Giving Back to His Roots and Community
Banchero’s commitment extends beyond the court, demonstrated by his continued support of his hometown in Seattle. He became a sponsor of his former AAU team, Rotary Style, helping young players pursue their potential through resources provided by his partnership with the Jordan brand.
“I grew up playing for the same program my whole life, the Seattle Rotary, and I felt it was one of the first things I wanted to do was to bless them with a sponsorship,”
—Paolo Banchero, Forward, Orlando Magic
His generosity also reaches Central Florida, where his charitable efforts earned him the Magic’s 2024-25 Rich & Helen DeVos Community Enrichment Award, an honor recognizing his impact off the court.
A Leader Poised to Elevate the Orlando Magic’s Success
Paolo Banchero’s blend of talent, relentless work ethic, humility, and community commitment positions him as a natural leader for the Magic’s future. With the roster now strengthened by key additions like Desmond Bane and supported by players such as Wagner and Suggs, Orlando’s prospects for on-court achievements look promising. Banchero embodies the winning mindset necessary to lead the Magic to new heights, making him a player to watch as the team aims for lasting success.