The Orlando Magic selected Duke’s Paolo Banchero Thursday night with the No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft, a surprise to some following many reports indicating either Jabari Smith or Chet Holmgren as the potential top pick.
Holmgren went No. 2 to the Oklahoma City Thunder, with Jabari Smith at No. 3 to the Houston Rockets.
“I can’t believe what just happened, honestly,” Banchero said immediately after his selection. “I wanted to be in the NBA, but I didn’t know I would be here. I really, honestly, didn’t.”
Banchero will be formally introduced to the media and public on Friday in a formal press conference with the Magic.
Orlando’s last two No. 1 overall picks were Shaquille O’Neal and Dwight Howard.
“I didn’t find out, though, that I was actually getting picked until about 20 seconds before the commissioner got on the stage,” Banchero added. “I didn’t even have time to really think about it or anything. It just kind of happened.”
He celebrated the moment with his mom, Rhonda Smith-Banchero, who played in the WNBA.
In his one season at Duke, the 6’10” forward averaged 17.2 points, 7.8 rebounds and 3.2 assists for a Blue Devils team that made it to the Final Four.
“Paolo, congratulations. I’m so happy for you and your family and the commitment you’ve made,” former Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski said in a video message shown at the NBA Draft. “You are, I think, the most versatile player in the draft. You can play anywhere on the court. You’re a winner. You are going to help tremendously and have a terrific NBA career.”
Banchero spoke passionately about the impact coach Krzyzewski and the Duke program had on him.
“He really taught me how to be a man,” Banchero said. “Being so far away from home, he was there for me whether it was telling me when I was messing up or complimenting me and let me know I was doing well, he was always there. He is the greatest coach I’ve ever had.”
Banchero joins a young core in Orlando with the likes of guards Jalen Suggs, Cole Anthony, and forwards Franz Wagner and Jonathan Isaac. Banchero adds some length and versatility to the front court that would allow a big-man like Wendell Carter Jr. to be able to play the preferred center position.
Banchero became the fifth Duke player to go No. 1 overall.
“I can’t believe it, but I’m ready. I’m ready,” Banchero added.
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