Paolo Banchero Scores 34 Points In Return For Orlando Magic Against Milwaukee Bucks

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Paolo Banchero made a strong return to the Orlando Magic, scoring 34 points after a lengthy injury break. He played against the Milwaukee Bucks for the first time in over two months, having missed 34 games due to an oblique muscle tear. Despite his impressive performance, Giannis Antetokounmpo's 41 points led the Bucks to a narrow 109-106 victory.

Banchero also contributed seven rebounds and three assists, hitting five out of eight three-point attempts. His return was a positive sign for Orlando, as he has averaged 29.8 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 5.2 assists in the 2024-25 season. Reflecting on his time away from the court, Banchero expressed his determination to make up for lost time.

Magic coach Jamahl Mosley found positives in Banchero's comeback despite the team's sixth loss in nine games, bringing their record to 22-18. "I didn't see that one coming," Mosley said about Banchero's performance. "But that's who he is. The kid's been working his tail off to get back in."

Mosley praised Banchero's poise and ability to take the right shots at crucial moments while defending effectively. "This tells you how much he wants to go get it and get after it," Mosley added. "That's who he is. He's a star for a reason."

The Magic have maintained the fifth-best record in the NBA's Eastern Conference despite missing their star player for much of the season. Banchero expressed pride in how his teammates have stepped up during his absence, highlighting their readiness and belief in each other.

"There's a team-wide belief in each other that anyone can step up at any moment," Banchero stated. "Guys put in the work just to be ready for the moment." He noted that different players have risen to the occasion every night, which has been encouraging for him.

Banchero shared his frustration during his injury period but acknowledged learning from watching games from a different perspective. "I had to try to find the positives," he said. "I've been able to sit and watch and just learn the game through a different lens."

He admitted feeling like something was taken away from him during his absence but is now motivated to make up for lost time with renewed determination.