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Magic Overcome Major Deficit to Secure Dramatic Win Against Nets

In a stunning display of determination, the Orlando Magic triumphed over the Brooklyn Nets with a score of 102-101, despite facing a 21-point deficit early in the third quarter. The Magic, who were already shorthanded, managed to pull off this victory on Sunday, marking their second comeback win from at least 21 points in just over a week. This victory is particularly remarkable given that they had only achieved two such comebacks in the previous six seasons combined.

“We don’t quit,” stated Cole Anthony, the Magic guard, who played a crucial role in the team’s victory. Anthony’s pivotal layup, made with just 1.3 seconds left on the clock, sealed the win for Orlando, who found themselves without key players such as Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Moritz Wagner. Additionally, point guard Jalen Suggs suffered a sprained wrist during the first half, further depleting the lineup.

Magic coach Jamahl Mosley praised his team’s resilience and grit, highlighting the effective preparation of the coaching staff in readying less experienced players for unexpected moments. “It speaks so much to the resiliency of our guys, the grit of our guys, the preparation of the coaching staff keeping guys that have not played ready to go,” Mosley commented. “That’s what you saw tonight.”

This comeback marks the sixth instance this season in the NBA where a team has overcome a 21-point deficit to win, with the Magic being responsible for two of those remarkable victories. Earlier in the month, Orlando trailed the Miami Heat by as much as 25 points on December 21 before rallying back to win 121-114 with an impressive 37-8 scoring run in the final quarter.

The Magic’s ability to remain a strong contender in the Eastern Conference playoff race — currently sitting fourth with a 20-14 record — is attributed largely to their steadfast defense. Remarkably, despite missing Banchero for 29 out of 34 games due to a torn oblique, the team has continued to perform well. Both Franz Wagner and Moritz Wagner are also dealing with injuries, with Franz expected to be out for several more weeks and Moritz sidelined for the entire season due to a torn ACL.