League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Transactions

Paolo Banchero discusses hype disparity with Zion Williamson, Cooper Flagg

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 28, 2026, 12:06 AM

Last updated Aug 28, 2026

Paolo Banchero discusses hype disparity with Zion Williamson, Cooper Flagg

Summary

Paolo Banchero, star forward for the Orlando Magic, addressed the different levels of hype he received compared to fellow NBA players Zion Williamson and Cooper Flagg. In an interview, he attributed this disparity to the impact of COVID-19 on his high school experience, which limited his exposure and opportunities, including the absence of a senior year and participation in all-star games. Banchero, selected first overall in the 2022 NBA Draft, has performed well with averages of 22.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game. He aims to reshape his recognition this season as he builds on his already strong performance.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Banchero reflects on the effects of COVID-19 on his draft class.
•He cites missed senior year opportunities as a key factor in hype disparity.
•Banchero's current averages are 22.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, 4.8 assists.
•He seeks to gain recognition with strong performance this season.

Latest Updates

12:12 PMYahoo Sports — Orlando Magic’s Paolo Banchero Blames COVID-19 for Not Getting the Same Hype During His Rookie Season
12:06 AMYahoo Sports — Paolo Banchero Explains Why He Never Got The Same Hype As Zion Williamson Or Cooper Flagg

What they're saying

"
Paolo Banchero has become a franchise cornerstone for the Orlando Magic since the team selected him with the No. 1 pick during the 2022 NBA Draft. But despite his steady play, Banchero has never been marketed the same way as some of his fellow top overall picks, including Victor Wembanyama, Anthony Edwards, Zion Williamson, and [...]
— Yahoo Sports