Banchero hails Orlando's 'full-team effort' in halting Cavs' winning run
The Orlando Magic handed the Cleveland Cavaliers their first loss since early February on Sunday, with Paolo Banchero leading the way.
Paolo Banchero praised the Orlando Magic's "full-team effort" as they ended the Cleveland Cavaliers' winning streak in the NBA on Sunday.
Banchero capped a 24-point performance with a go-ahead jumper in the final minute to help the Magic secure a 108-103 win over the Cavaliers, who had won a franchise-record 16 straight games beforehand.
The Magic overcame a 13-point half-time deficit, but still left it late to get the win, closing the game on 6-0 in the final minute to restore their lead after it looked like the Cavs would snatch a late victory.
Banchero, who also added 11 rebounds and seven assists, praised both sides of the team for digging in to see out what he believes is a big win in their season.
"Our defense was great," Banchero said. "We were getting to their shooters, flying around, covering for each other.
"Then on offense, we just made enough plays, trusted each other, guys stepped up when they were called on to make big shots after big shots. It was a full-team effort."
WAGIC WIN pic.twitter.com/OC4hKduQaS
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) March 16, 2025
Cleveland lost for the first time since February 4, with the Eastern Conference leaders struggling in the closing stages.
They missed five shots, three of which came from All-Star Donovan Mitchell, in the final minute.
Mitchell returned from an injury lay-off with 23 points, with Jarrett Allen also adding 20, but the Cavaliers were denied becoming the first team since the Phoenix Suns in 2021 to win 17 straight games.
"First of all, you've gotta credit [Orlando]," Cleveland coach Kenny Atkinson said. "Top three defense, that's what they do. They're an excellent defensive team.
"I think sometimes it's like, 'Oh, okay, this league is, it's a tough league'. A lot of great teams out there.
"And I think this will help us on this trip just be ready to go out there and play better."