Oct 26, 2024; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Desmond Bane (22) dribbles around a screen set by forward Brandon Clarke (15) on Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs (4) during the first half at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

Jalen Suggs Has Exciting Reaction To New Backcourt Partner Desmond Bane

Originally posted on Orlando Magic on SI
By Don Strouble | Last updated Jun 16, 2025 6:44 PM ET

The Orlando Magic on Sunday capitalized on their pursuit of a much-needed roster upgrade by trading for Memphis Grizzlies shooting guard Desmond Bane. Bane joins an up-and-coming core of Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs.

In a recent SportsCenter appearance, Suggs revealed how he learned about the blockbuster deal.

"I had the ESPN Fantasy notification pop up on my phone, and then a couple minutes later I got a call from Jeff [Weltman], so that's how I took in the news," Suggs said. "A good start to my day; I was very excited, you know, having a player of his caliber come in.

Jalen Suggs on Desmond Bane:

"Having a player of his caliber come in. It's been a while and the Grizzlies have had their turmoil. I texted him yesterday morning and said I'm excited to start this championship journey with you" pic.twitter.com/pdgAmHTDh4
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) June 16, 2025

Suggs was averaging career-highs in multiple categories before a knee injury sidelined him for the remainder of the season in March. The addition of Bane provides a chance for Suggs to return to form as a tenacious defender next season.

"It's been a while, and the Grizzlies have had their turmoil, but they were just battling with Steph [Curry], Klay [Thompson], Jordan Poole, Draymond [Green] and Steve Kerr," Suggs said. "He was a big part of them staying in that series and keeping the Grizzlies playing good basketball. Excited to get around him and spend some time with him. I texted him yesterday morning and said, 'I'm excited to start this championship journey with you.'"

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This article first appeared on Orlando Magic on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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