Indiana Pacers

Paolo Banchero’s late heroics lift Magic over Pacers

Published

January 1, 2026

Dec 31, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) dribbles the ball while Indiana Pacers guard/forward Aaron Nesmith (23) defends in the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

The Orlando Magic edged the Indiana Pacers 112-110 in a New Year’s Eve showdown. Paolo Banchero proved to be the difference maker, delivering 29 points and 10 rebounds, including the go-ahead layup with 7.5 seconds left.

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The Magic overcame a 10-point third-quarter deficit thanks to strong play from Banchero’s supporting players. Desmond Bane scored 18 points, Anthony Black added 15, and former Pacer Goga Bitadze dropped 14.

About the Author Published Jan 1, 2026

TITAN FREY

Titan Frey is a dedicated father to three wonderful children, whom he takes immense pride in. His passions include reading, writing, basketball, both playing and watching, and playing chess. Titan spent five years working as a journalist for the basketball website fadeawayworld.net, where he served as editor-in-chief for four and a half years. One of his most notable achievements was interviewing Chuck Cooper III, the son of Chuck Cooper, the first African American ever drafted by an NBA team, and writing a biography that has been praised as the most definitive article about Cooper’s legacy. Titan is the author of more than ten novels and the screenwriter of three produced short films. His newest young adult novel, Echoes of the Hardwood: Braxton Foxworthy’s Time‑Travelling Book Report, blends basketball history with heartfelt storytelling and is now available. Order here: https://a.co/d/bo7BYz1