Sun Nov 09 22:20:00 UTC 2025: Summary:

The Orlando Magic defeated the Boston Celtics 123-110 in their NBA Cup opener. Franz Wagner led the Magic with 27 points, followed by Desmond Bane with 22. Jaylen Brown scored 32 points for the Celtics. After the Celtics rallied to tie the game in the second half, a late surge by the Magic, fueled by three-pointers from Wagner, Bane, and Carter Jr., secured the victory. Orlando’s strong shooting performance, particularly from beyond the arc, proved to be a key factor. The two teams are scheduled to play again in Orlando on Sunday.

News Article:

Magic Stun Celtics in NBA Cup Opener

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Orlando Magic kicked off their NBA Cup campaign with an impressive 123-110 victory over the Boston Celtics on Friday night. Franz Wagner exploded for 27 points, spearheading the Magic’s offense, while Desmond Bane contributed a solid 22 points and 7 assists.

Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with a game-high 32 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Orlando’s balanced attack and hot shooting. Payton Pritchard added 27 for Boston.

After a strong first quarter where the Magic built a 16-point lead, the Celtics battled back to tie the game. Brown’s jumper midway through the fourth quarter even briefly gave Boston a 96-95 lead. However, the Magic responded emphatically with a decisive 17-4 run fueled by clutch three-pointers from Wagner, Bane, and Wendell Carter Jr., putting the game out of reach.

Orlando’s strong shooting from beyond the arc, connecting on 17 of 36 attempts, proved to be a key difference. The Celtics struggled from distance, shooting just 13 for 37.

The Magic and Celtics are both in East Group B of the inaugural NBA in-season tournament, along with the Brooklyn Nets, Detroit Pistons, and Philadelphia 76ers.

The two teams will face off again in Orlando on Sunday, giving the Celtics a chance to avenge the loss.

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