Orlando residents saw the Magic stumble in their first game of the 2024‑25 NBA season on Monday, as the Atlanta Hawks escaped with a 132‑125 victory at the Kia Center. The loss matters because it sets the tone for the team’s early performance and highlights areas that need immediate improvement for a competitive season.
Orlando rallied late in the third quarter, stringing together a 17‑4 run that gave the Magic a 100‑99 edge heading into the final period. The surge was fueled by a 38‑point third quarter, but the momentum evaporated in the last 12 minutes when the Magic managed only 25 points while committing 20 turnovers.
Paolo Banchero led the effort with a game‑high 35 points, adding 10 assists and seven rebounds. He was supported by Franz Wagner and Wendell Carter Jr., each contributing 22 points; Carter was especially efficient, shooting 8‑of‑10 from the field. Atlanta’s Desmond Bane added 18 points, and bench player Tristan da Silva supplied 14 for the Hawks.
Coach Sean Sweeney addressed the defeat, noting, “The three‑point shooting for Atlanta in the second half, they were eight for 20, and then in the fourth quarter we had a tough time shooting it. I think just in general, we can improve a lot on our execution, especially in the second half.” The Magic also struggled early, trailing 72‑62 at halftime, and their offensive woes continued as they shot poorly from beyond the arc in the second half.
Despite the loss, the Magic’s home crowd got a glimpse of the team’s potential, especially in the third‑quarter rally. However, the high turnover count and inconsistent shooting underscore the work needed before the next home game.
What’s next: The Magic return to the Kia Center on Friday for their next home contest against the Minnesota Timberwolves, with tip‑off scheduled for 7 p.m. Fans will be watching to see if the team can tighten its ball handling and improve second‑half execution after the opening night disappointment.
Sources: wesh.com
