League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Magic fall to Hawks in season opener despite Banchero's 35

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 22, 2026, 2:01 AM

Last updated Oct 22, 2026

Magic fall to Hawks in season opener despite Banchero's 35

Summary

The Orlando Magic lost to the Atlanta Hawks 132-125 in their season opener at Kia Center on October 21. Paolo Banchero led all scorers with 35 points, contributing significantly, but the Magic struggled with turnovers, finishing with 20. The game featured 22 lead changes, and despite a strong third quarter from Orlando, Atlanta sealed the victory with late clutch shots from Nickeil Alexander-Walker. The Magic will host the Minnesota Timberwolves in their next game on October 23.

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By the Numbers

•The game ended with the Hawks outscoring the Magic 33-25 in the fourth quarter.
•Banchero nearly recorded a triple-double with 35 points, 7 rebounds, and 10 assists.
•Orlando had a significant turnover issue, recording 20 throughout the game.
•Atlanta's bench contributed 34 points, outscoring Orlando's bench.
•Magic's next game is against the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 23.

Latest Updates

2:01 AMYahoo Sports — Beede’s Breakdown: Magic drop season opener to Hawks despite Banchero’s 35

What they're saying

"
In the weeks and days leading up to opening night of the 2026-27 NBA season, Magic players and coaches alike expressed excitement about starting a new era in Orlando franchise history under first-time head coach Sean Sweeney on the right foot. The Hawks, however, had other plans. On a night that saw 22 lead changes and both the Magic and Hawks lead by double digits, it was Atlanta who pulled ...
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Atlanta Hawks Minnesota Timberwolves NBA Basketball

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External links

Yahoo SportsOct 22, 2026, 2:01 AM
Beede’s Breakdown: Magic drop season opener to Hawks despite Banchero’s 35
In the weeks and days leading up to opening night of the 2026-27 NBA season, Magic players and coaches alike expressed excitement about starting a new era in Orlando franchise history under first-time head coach Sean Sweeney on the right foot. The Hawks, however, had other plans. On a night that saw 22 lead changes and both the Magic and Hawks lead by double digits, it was Atlanta who pulled ...

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