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Paolo Banchero Sends Strong Message After Celtics Eliminate Magic

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Reign Amurao | Last updated Apr 30, 2025 7:00 AM ET

Paolo Banchero and the Orlando Magic failed to extend the series on Tuesday against the Boston Celtics. They dealt with a dominant 120-89 loss to the defending champions to end their 2025 NBA playoff run. After Orlando's elimination, Banchero had a strong message to the public.

The first-time All-Star got into foul trouble in the third period and didn't play most of the second half. By the time head coach Jamahl Mosley became comfortable playing him, the Celtics had already built enough momentum.

Banchero finished with 19 points, nine rebounds and six assists on 50% shooting from deep. After the game, however, he wasn't ecstatic with how they were eliminated.

Speaking to reporters, the former Duke star expressed how badly the team wanted to advance to the next round. Banchero said the Magic's goal was to get past the reigning champions.

“We wanted to go to the second round,” Banchero said. “I don’t think anyone is necessarily happy that we didn’t get blown out four games. That wasn’t the goal.

“The goal was to win and go to the second round. I’m not taking any moral victories from this series, the goal was to win.”

Paolo Banchero told reporters postgame he’s not taking any moral victories from being competitive in nearly all the games vs. Boston: “The goal was to win and go to the second round. I’m not taking any moral victories from this series, the goal was to win.”

: @OrlandoMagic pic.twitter.com/YHG5rFJhwY
— Fawzan Amer (@FAmer__) April 30, 2025

The star forward led the Magic to the postseason and went against the Celtics. With Banchero's leadership, the group set the tone with the physicality they brought.

In his second postseason appearance, the 6-foot-10 forward showed how much he's improved. He averaged 29.4 points, 8.4 rebounds and 4.2 assists on 44.4% from downtown. Banchero has a bright future ahead of him, and even one of the star players from the opposing teams complimented his group.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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