The Magic have officially signed Paolo Banchero, the first pick of last week’s NBA draft, the team announced in a press release.
In 39 games as a freshman for Duke this past season, the 6’10” Banchero averaged 17.2 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 3.2 APG and 1.1 SPG on .478/.338/.729 shooting. He helped lead the Blue Devils to a 32-7 record and a No. 2 seed in the NCAA tournament, where they ultimately fell to long-time rival North Carolina in the Final Four.
Banchero earned numerous accolades for his stellar season, including Consensus All-America Second Team, All-ACC First Team, and ACC Rookie of the Year, among others.
As the first overall pick, Banchero will earn $11,055,120 as a rookie in 2022/23 if he signs for the maximum allowable 120% of the rookie scale (nearly always happens). He’s eligible to make $50,158,769 over the four-year contract, assuming the Magic pick up his team options in years three and four, which is basically a lock given his draft status.
Banchero is expected to make his Orlando debut in the Las Vegas Summer League on July 7.
It’s sorta crazy that there was ever any real question of who the #1 pick would be
Talent breaks ties, this high in the draft.
there was no tie. this dude is the only 1 of the 3 who can’t shoot or play defense, the 2 things the magic need the most.
it’s sorta crazy… that there were 2 clear best options… and the magic managed to pick neither.