Magic forward Paolo Banchero had an incredible night against the Pacers, marking his best performance in three years.
Paolo’s Stellar Performance
In a thrilling game, Banchero scored 50 points, the highest of his career, leading Orlando to a 119-115 victory. He shot 16 out of 26 from the field and was just one assist away from a triple-double, ending with 13 rebounds and nine assists. Most impressively, he racked up 37 of those points in the first half alone, helping the Magic secure a strong halftime lead of 71-59.
Milestone Achievements
This game marked the first time someone scored 50 points in the NBA’s 2024-25 season. According to ESPN’s SportsCenter, Banchero is now the second-youngest player ever to achieve at least 50 points, ten rebounds, and five assists in a single game—only LeBron James was younger when he did it.
FIRST 50 POINT GAME OF THE SEASON 🔥
PAOLO IS THE SECOND YOUNGEST PLAYER EVER WITH A 50/10/5 GAME, BEHIND ONLY LEBRON ✨
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter)
Joining Elite Company
NBA’s social media highlighted that Banchero’s explosive first half included seven rebounds and six assists. This feat places him among only three players since the play-by-play era began (1997-98) to score at least 35 points with five rebounds and five assists in one half—a rare club that includes James Harden and Donovan Mitchell.
Paolo Banchero MONSTER 37-point 1st half AND a triple-double watch 🤯
🪄 37 PTS
🪄 7 REB
🪄 6 AST
🪄 3 3PM
🪄 13-17 FGMHe is the third player in the play-by-play era (1997-1998) to record at least 35 PTS, 5 REB and 5 AST in a half, joining James Harden and Donovan Mitchell! 👏
— NBA (@NBA)
Fans are thrilled about Paolo’s potential this season!
Highlight Moments
One of Banchero’s standout moments came late in the second quarter. He made an impressive defensive block against Myles Turner’s dunk attempt. Shortly after, he nailed a smooth jumper over Andrew Nembhard, pushing Orlando ahead with a score of 65-54.
THE BLOCK AT THE RIM.
THE PULL-UP FOR 35.
PAOLO DOING IT ALL 💪
— NBA (@NBA)
The Road Ahead
After making his All-Star debut last season, Banchero seems poised for another leap forward. Last year he led Orlando to their first playoffs since before COVID-19 hit and achieved their highest win count since the early ’10s. With his growth continuing this year, who knows what surprises await!
