Banchero drops career-high 50 in Magic's win over Pacers
Paolo Banchero recorded a career-best 50 points as well as 13 rebounds and nine assists in the Orlando Magic's 119-115 win over the Indiana Pacers on Monday.
Banchero scored 37 across the first two quarters, matching Tracy McGrady's franchise record for points in a half.
"It was just being in the zone," Banchero said, according to ESPN. "Felt like I was in an open gym, back at home, just working on my game. Every shot felt like it was going in and it's a good feeling when you've got a day like that. Not every game is going to be like that, but I'm glad today was."
Banchero also called his first half performance "magical."
It's Orlando's first 50-point effort since McGrady scored 51 against the Denver Nuggets in 2003, according to Statmuse. It's also the NBA's first 50-point game this season.
Banchero joins LeBron James as the only players to record more than 50 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists in a contest before turning 22 years old, per Statmuse.
Magic guard Jalen Suggs added 25 points in the victory. Pacers forward Pascal Siakam led his team in scoring with 26.
Orlando improves to 3-1 with the win and faces the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday.
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