Paolo Banchero’s 34-point comeback against the Bucks stunned Jamal Moseley

Paolo Banchero made the statement in his return to court Friday night, delivering stellar performances despite Orlando Magic‘s narrow 109-106 loss of Milwaukee Bucks. After missing 34 games with a torn right icon, the All-Star forward had 34 points, seven rebounds, three assists, two steals and a block. Banchero shot 11-for-21 from the field, including an efficient 5-for-8 from beyond the arc, and made 7-of-10 free throws in just 27 minutes playing under the minutes restriction.

Before the injury, Banchero was off to a strong start to his third NBA season, averaging 29 points, 8.8 rebounds and 5.6 assists per game while shooting 49.5% from the field and 34.4% from three. He also recorded a record 50 points in a win over the Indiana Pacers on October 28, highlighting his increasing dominance on the field.

Paolo Banchero he reflects on the challenges of his time on the sidelines

Reflecting on his first game against the Bucks, Banchero admitted challenges of regaining his rhythm and fitness, but expressed satisfaction with his overall performance.

“I feel good. It hurts a little. “I think I played pretty well,” Banchero said after the game. “Just the way I felt, (in) the first few minutes I definitely felt it — just the legs, kind of, feeling a little weak and my wind’s not there.” But I think as the game went on, I kind of caught wind and was able to slow the game down. Honestly, when I got to that point, I think I felt natural again.”

The extended time on the sidelines gave Bancher a different perspective, but he admitted he would have preferred to play.

“I think just the benefit was really watching from the sideline and seeing what’s going on from the sidelines – how the coaches see it and stuff,” he said. “But honestly, I’d rather have been there, so I’m happy that I returned.”

Jamahl Mosley lauds Bancher’s remarkable comeback in Magic’s loss to Bucks

Coach Jamal ​​Mosley praised the performance of Paolo Banchero, highlighting the forward’s poise and determination.

“I didn’t see it coming.” I can tell you that… but that’s the way he is,” Mosley he said. “The kid was trying to come back, and so what he was able to do with the poise, the right shots, the right timing on defense, taking matchups.” Again, this tells you how much he wants to take it and get it. That’s him. I mean, he’s a star for a reason.”

Banchero, who admitted he didn’t expect such a strong performance, remained focused on improving as he regains full strength.

“Honestly, I didn’t (expect it) either.” It just happened,” Banchero said. “I didn’t feel complete — I had a few moments where I wanted to dunk and my legs just didn’t give me the push I needed. As I keep going and get more games under my belt, I think I’ll start to feel my body somehow giving back.”

The Magic, now 22-18, have dropped to fifth in the Eastern Conference after two straight losses. Despite the setback, Buncher’s return is a significant boost as Orlando looks to bounce back in its next matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers (15-21) on Sunday night. The Magic, currently 2-1 against the 76ers this season, aim to clinch the season series and regain momentum as they complete a three-game homestand.