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Mar 21, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) rebounds the ball against Washington Wizards forward Justin Champagnie (9) during the third quarter at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images

'Tip of the Iceberg' – Former Orlando Magic Player Energizes How Good Paolo Banchero Is

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Reign Amurao | Last updated Sep 14, 2025 10:48 AM ET

Paolo Banchero has emerged as one of the best young talents in the NBA. Banchero is the No. 1 option for the Orlando Magic and has led them to two playoff appearances. He’s won Rookie of the Year and followed it up with an All-Star selection in young career. Many believe he’s on the right path of becoming a true star in the NBA.

However, Banchero struggled to stay healthy in his third which limited him to just 46 games last season. In his first and second seasons, the one-time All-Star suited up for 72 and 80 games, respectively.

But that doesn’t affect how he’s viewed in the league. He‘s set to be one of the best players of the future and former NBA player Mike Miller spoke highly of it.

Miller talked about Banchero on the latest episode of his show with former teammate Udonis Haslem, called “The OGs Show.” The former Sixth Man of the Year also represents the Orlando Magic star, which is why he believes the 6-foot-10 big man will emerge as one of the best stars.

“Tip of the iceberg,” stated Miller when asked how talented Banchero is.“Paolo’s biggest thing was just, ‘How can I be the best basketball player?’ Like he just cared about basketball. That’s rare.”

“He’s just beginning to understand how freaking good he is. The one thing I’ll say about him and why I’ll bet on him all day long is cause he absolutely loves it and dives into it.”

“I think he’s this new era. He’s 6’10”-611,” 270, moves like a guard, plays like a guard, I think he has a chance to be one of the best. I would bet everything that he’s going to be one of those dudes that we talk about for the longest time.”

The Orlando Magic are expected to emerge as one of the best teams in the East

Mar 16, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) dribbles beside Cleveland Cavaliers forward De’Andre Hunter (12) in the first quarter at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images

The Orlando Magic have shown promise in the past two seasons by being a playoff team. However, they have struggled to go past the opening round of the postseason. Despite this, experts believe success will soon follow Banchero and the Magic.

ESPN recently ranked which teams will likely take a singificant leap next season. The San Antonio Spurs and Atlanta Hawks are tied in first place, while the Philadelphia 76ers have the second place. The Magic, on the other hand, have secured the third spot in the prediction for next season.

“The young and hungry Orlando Magic lurk here as well, as they look to advance past the first round of the playoffs for the first time since 2009-10,” Michael C. Wright wrote.

Mar 13, 2024; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) shoots a free throw against the Brooklyn Nets in the fourth quarter at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Reper-USA TODAY Sports

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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