Orlando Magic

The Orlando Magic are a professional basketball team based in Orlando, Florida, competing in the Southeast Division of the Eastern Conference of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Founded in 1989 as an expansion franchise, the Magic quickly rose to prominence, fueled by the drafting of superstar centers Shaquille O'Neal and later Dwight Howard. The team plays its home games at the Amway Center, a venue renowned for its modern amenities and fan experience. Throughout their history, the Magic have established a reputation for defensive prowess and developing elite big-man talent. The franchise experienced its greatest successes in the 1990s and late 2000s, appearing in the NBA Finals in 1995, 1996, and 2009. Although they have yet to secure an NBA championship, the Magic have won multiple division titles and remain a staple of the Central Florida sports landscape. The team's black and blue color scheme and iconic starball logo are recognizable symbols of the city's sporting identity.

The Orlando Magic are currently in a competitive rebuild centered around a young, athletic core. Led by 2023 Rookie of the Year Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, the team has emphasized length, versatility, and defensive intensity under head coach Jamahl Mosley. After a multi-year playoff drought, the Magic returned to the postseason in 2024, signaling a shift toward contention in the Eastern Conference. The roster is among the youngest in the league, focusing on internal development and establishing a cohesive culture. Recent seasons have seen significant improvements in their defensive rating, positioning them as a rising team poised to challenge established powers in the East.