ORLANDO, FLA- As a result of an astounding offensive performance, the Orlando Magic (9-20, 13th in East) defeated the Atlanta Hawks (14-15, 8th in East) for their fourth-straight win. In addition to their season-best win streak, Orlando notched a franchise-record 50 points in the first quarter versus Atlanta. In the first quarter, the Magic shot 16-25 (64.0%) from the field and 6-10 (60.0%) from three-point range as a team, both season-highs for a single quarter. In doing so, Orlando became the ninth team in NBA History to score 50 or more points in the first quarter.
“We’ve said it from the beginning — understanding it’s our process and ability to grow in wins and losses. Yes, the morale has been up but to me, it’s the same spirit that has embodied the entire time,” Orlando Magic Head Coach Jamahl Mosley said.
After their high-scoring first quarter, Orlando claimed an impressive 50-22 lead over Atlanta, which they would never relinquish in the eleven-point win. The Magic would extend their lead to 29-points (59-30) early in the second quarter before Atlanta went on a 32-7 scoring run to cut Orlando’s lead to 76-62. From there, however, Orlando scored 59 of the game’s final 121 points to secure their ninth win of the season.
While eight of Orlando’s ten players scored double-digits in the win, second-year forward Franz Wagner served as the Magic’s No. 1 scoring option, recording a team-high 24 points, three rebounds, and four assists on 7-17 (41.2%) shooting from the field and 3-6 (50.0%) from three-point range. Likewise, Bol Bol continued to add to his case as the NBA’s 2022-2023 Most Improved Player, notching 21 points, seven rebounds, two assists, and one block on 7-13 (%) shooting from the field in 27 minutes.
Even on 6-16 (37.5%) shooting from the field and 2-7 (28.5%) shooting from three-point range, 2022 No. 1 pick Paolo Banchero managed to post 20 points, six rebounds, and six assists in 34 minutes, his 17th game this season with double-digit points. As Orlando’s starting point guard, Markelle Fultz pitched in 16 points, seven rebounds, nine assists, and four steals, while Moritz Wagner added 17 points and five rebounds as the Magic’s starting center. Orlando’s bench unit of Cole Anthony (13/5/6), Terrence Ross (11/4/1), and Mo Bamba (11/7/0) also contributed to their explosive offensive showing versus Atlanta.
“I don’t think we think in streaks because you always keep the long-term picture in mind, but winning helps,” Moritz Wagner said. “That’s natural instinct. Of course, the mood is better when you win and you’re somewhat relieved and see the work translate.”
