Magic
Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero shoots.a free throw against the Los Angeles Clipper during overtime in an NBA basketball game Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2022, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)

The Orlando Magic Win Close Game In Overtime

The Orlando Magic broke their nine-game losing streak Wednesday night in overtime. The team defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 116-111.

At the beginning of the game, it seemed that the Magic wouldn’t catch up to the Clippers as the Clippers held an 18-point lead. At the start of the second half, the Clippers continued to outperform the Magic offensively and defensively.

However, the Magic soon began to step up their game, as they only allowed the Clippers to put up 17 points. The second quarter score was 49-40.

In the third quarter, the Clippers managed to continue to obtain the lead, as they were up by seven points. The Magic had a 25-5 run in the fourth quarter, allowing them to get in the lead. Toward the end of the quarter, the Clippers had two chances to end the game right then and there. Kawhi Leonard attempted his trademark fadeaway with 30.1 seconds remaining, and Paul George missed a pullup jump shot as the clock ran out. Despite the Magic having possession towards the end, Markelle Fultz could not get the shot to fall. The result of the fourth quarter was 99-99.

Magic Win Late

At halftime, the Magic took advantage of the Clippers’ decision to rest George and Leonard. Leonard returned to the game with 1:22 remaining. The score was tied at 108. Bol Bol’s putback layup gave Orlando the lead, but Nicolas Batum answered quickly on the other end by sinking a three. Paolo Banchero drew two fouls at the end of the game and made all four free throws, which led the Magic to their five-point win. Banchero was the most significant playmaker in this game, as he was Orlando’s leading scorer. He put up 23 points.

https://twitter.com/OrlandoMagic/status/1600687155012984832

Upcoming Games

Orlando will look to keep the wins in their favor taking on the Toronto Raptors on Friday at 7:00 p.m.

The Clippers will play Miami Heat Thursday at 7:30 p.m.

About Cristina Santiago

Cristina Santiago is a senior at the University of Florida studying journalism with a concentration in sports and media.

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