In a league filled with established stars and seasoned veterans, it’s not every day that a teenager enters the NBA and makes history.
Anthony Black, the 19-year-old point guard for the Orlando Magic, is doing just that. With his recent performance against the Washington Wizards, Black is carving out a unique path in the world of professional basketball.
The Magic’s decision to select Black as the No. 6 overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft raised eyebrows. After all, the team already boasted a talented backcourt with players like Cole Anthony and Jalen Suggs. However, injuries early in the 2023-24 season created opportunities, and Black seized them. He has become a permanent fixture in the starting lineup, showcasing his potential.
Black’s stats may not be eye-popping, but his impact on the court sure is. Averaging 5.7 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in just over 20 minutes per game, he’s a work in progress. However, his shooting percentages, particularly a true shooting percentage of 85.6% in a recent game, hint at his future potential as a two-way player.
It was in the game against the Washington Wizards that Black truly made his mark. Scoring a career-high 23 points, he shot efficiently from the field and beyond the arc. His performance also included six rebounds, one assist, and four steals, making him the first teenager in NBA history to achieve 20+ points with a true shooting percentage of 85%+ and four steals in a single game.
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The Magic’s future is indeed looking bright, with Anthony Black joining a promising young core that includes Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Under the guidance of head coach Jamahl Mosley, the team has become one of the NBA’s surprises this season, boasting an 18-11 record.
Black’s emergence as the point guard of the future signifies a new era for the Orlando Magic. His defensive prowess, combined with untapped offensive potential, makes him a player to watch closely. As he continues to develop and mature, Black is poised to become a cornerstone of the Magic’s success in the coming years.