Orlando Magic: Triumph in the NBA Cup and Wagner shines in the last game!

Orlando Magic: Triumph in the NBA Cup and Wagner shines in the last game!

An exciting Friday evening for basketball fans and especially for the supporters of the Orlando Magic: On November 29, 2025, the Magic secured a place in the final round of the new mid-season tournament NBA Cup, and ventured through the group phase undefeated with four wins from four games. In the decisive duel against the Detroit Pistons, the Magic prevailed 112:109.

Desmond Bane was once again in strong form, contributing the most points for his team with 37 points. Franz Wagner was also extremely active and scored 21 points and 7 rebounds. Tristan da Silva, who was in the starting lineup, also did a solid job and scored 8 points. On the Pistons side, Cade Cunningham was the standout performer with an impressive triple-double, recording 39 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists.

Group stage and knockout rounds

The NBA Cup, introduced this season as part of an initiative to increase engagement, brings a breath of fresh air to the regular season. The format is that each team plays two home and two away games in the group stage, and the point difference and number of wins determine who advances to the knockout rounds. Eight teams, including the six group winners and two wild card teams, reach the decisive games.

The Magic competed in a group with the New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers. Even before the last group game it was clear that they would qualify for the knockout rounds. Thanks to their strong performance in the group stage, they now advance to the quarterfinals against the Miami Heat, which will take place on December 9th.

Outlook for the quarterfinals

The other quarterfinal games also promise excitement: The Oklahoma City Thunder, who secured first place in the West with another win against the Phoenix Suns (123:119), will face the Suns. The Los Angeles Lakers, who triumphed against the Dallas Mavericks (129:119) and are now very popular with LeBron James, who made his season debut, are going into the race against the San Antonio Spurs.

In addition to winning their group, the Magic clearly demonstrated that they need to be taken seriously in November. With their compact team and the motivation on the way to the trophy, they are ready to face the challenges of the knockout phase. This could mean that fans in Orlando will soon be able to cheer again!