Orlando Magic’s Banchero Reflects on Season and Future Aspirations

ORLANDO, Fla. — Paolo Banchero took time Tuesday to reflect on his season with the Orlando Magic and discuss his aspirations for the future during an event promoting mental and physical health.

Three weeks have passed since the Magic were eliminated by the Boston Celtics in the first round of the playoffs. Banchero, who averaged career-highs of 25.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists, met with local teens at a Planet Fitness in the SoDo District.

In the early part of the season, Banchero faced a significant challenge when he tore his right abdominal muscle in just the fifth game. Despite this setback, he returned to help guide the team to a second consecutive postseason.

“I’ve been keeping to myself, but I’m in touch with some of my teammates, checking on them,” Banchero said. “I’ve definitely taken time to think back on the season and how it went.”

While enjoying his summer break, Banchero has been active, recently traveling to New York City and planning a trip back to his hometown of Seattle. His agent shared on Instagram that Banchero has been training on an indoor basketball court.

“I’ve been in the gym but I haven’t done any strength stuff yet,” Banchero said. “I’m just trying to relax my mind and my body. I’ve been enjoying my own time.”

Banchero is eager to get back to training in the coming months. He has been watching the NBA playoffs as well, where several new teams have made it into the conference finals, including the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers.

<p“This could be us next year,” he said. “Seeing all these teams get there, all these young players lead their teams, it definitely gets me excited.”

With a remarkable turnover in championship contenders, Banchero believes the Magic can leverage this league parity for future success.