It's one of the most stunning victories of the year, and it comes a few hours before moving to 2025. We owe it to the Magic, undermined by injuries to its best players, but who managed last night to s impose after being up to 21 points behind against the Nets. There were still 17 points difference in the 4th quarter, and another 9 at the start of money time.
And then, Tristan da Silva let go in attack, and Caleb Houstan equalized with 49 seconds remaining (99-99). Behind, Goga Bitadze left a free throw on the way, to allow Jalen Wilson to restore the advantage to the Nets (101-100). The rest is Cole Anthonythe hero of the evening, who tells the story.
“Everyone who wears the Orlando Magic uniform on this team is giving it their all right now”reacts the leader. “It's not a question of capacity, it's just a question of opportunity. Opportunities present themselves to many of us. I didn't play very well, but that shot was really nice. Initially, the system was for Tristan. He would have succeeded if he had had it… It's a hell of a victory! »
Tristan da Silva, the find of the Draft
Third German on the team, the Magic rookie took advantage of injuries to show off, and last night, he scored 13 of his 21 points in the last quarter. This is his personal best and it also highlights the solidarity and mentality of this group.
“Everyone has composure and tenacity”, explains the rookiedrafted in 18th position. “It’s that mentality of taking the next action. I feel like everyone demonstrates this. And then there are huge actions. Everyone does their job. Everyone is consistent. »
Qualities which allow the Magic to sign a third victory in eight days after being more than 10 points behind, and even twice more than 20 points. It should be remembered that they have just won the Florida derby after overcoming a 25-point gap against the Heat. Even the setback of a small point, at the last second against the Heat, does not undermine their morale.
Enough to make their coach, Jamahl Mosley, very proud. “It says so much about the resilience of our guys, their determination, and the preparation of the coaching staff. Assistants keep players who haven't played ready because they know they can bring a spark at any time. This is what you saw tonight. No matter how much we've struggled, these guys are going to keep fighting. They were in the game. Our crowd was into the match, and that pushed us. We always talk about protecting our home field and finishing strong at home, and that's what these guys did tonight. I'm extremely proud of these guys for the way they continue to fight no matter what. »
