Paolo Banchero Matches Magic Record with 37-Point First Half Performance

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Paolo Banchero made history on Monday night, tying the Orlando Magic record for points in a half with an incredible performance. The rookie sensation scored a jaw-dropping 37 points in just the first two quarters, leading his team to a thrilling 119-115 comeback win against the Indiana Pacers.

Banchero, the 2023 Kia Rookie of the Year and 2024 All-Star, was 13-for-17 from the field in the half. He also had seven rebounds and six assists, ultimately finishing with a career-high 50 points (16-26 FGs, 3-9 3PM, 15-22 FTs), 13 rebounds, nine assists and two blocks.

The 37 points tied the mark set by Tracy McGrady, also in the first half, for Orlando against Washington on March 10, 2004. McGrady finished that game with a club-record 62 points.

Banchero’s career-high entering Monday is 43 points, set Jan. 3 against Sacramento. There were four first-half performances of 37 or more points last season — two by Phoenix’s Devin Booker, one by Karl-Anthony Towns (then of Minnesota, now of New York) and one by Dallas’ Luka Doncic.