(Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
Paolo Banchero of the Orlando Magic is the reigning Rookie of the Year but he also wanted to be a world champion too.
Sadly, Team USA wasn’t able to secure the gold medal in the FIBA Basketball World Cup.
Following the team’s defeat this past weekend, Banchero tweeted a message to his fans.
“and now back to our regularly scheduled programming,” Banchero said.
and now back to our regularly scheduled programming @OrlandoMagic
— Paolo Banchero (@Pp_doesit) September 11, 2023
During the World Cup, Banchero averaged 9.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.6 assists.
He wasn’t able to participate in the final game against Team Canada due to illness but he was solid in his other appearances before that.
His first game of the tournament, against New Zealand, was his best with 21 points on 80% from the field.
Now that his time in the World Cup is over, Banchero is turning his attention back to the upcoming NBA season.
During his first season, Banchero was an absolute gem for his Magic.
He scored 20 points and 6.9 rebounds a game.
He led his team in points scored and minutes played per game.
Banchero is obviously the most important part of Orlando’s future and the upcoming season could prove that even more.
The Magic ended 2022-23 as the 13th team in the East, which means they are still a long way off from making the playoffs.
Plenty of work still needs to be done and Banchero will be at the center of it all.
The good news is that he will be surrounded by other great rising stars like Franz Wagner, Cole Anthony, Jalen Suggs, and more.
It’s an exciting time to be a fan of the Magic and Banchero is ready for what comes next.
The post Paolo Banchero Sends A Message After Team USA’s World Cup Exit appeared first on The Cold Wire.