Blue Devil Country

Former Duke Basketball Star Ready to End Months-Long Absence

Duke basketball pro Paolo Banchero looks to pick up where he left off for the Magic back in October.

Matt Giles

Former Duke basketball forward Paolo Banchero
Former Duke basketball forward Paolo Banchero / Rob Kinnan-Imagn Images
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Two days before suffering a torn oblique that has sidelined him since late October, former Duke basketball one-and-done Paolo Banchero posted a career-high 50 points, along with 10 rebounds and five assists, for the Orlando Magic in a win over the Indiana Pacers.

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Through five outings this season, the 22-year-old's third since hearing his name No. 1 overall at the 2022 NBA Draft, Banchero is averaging a career-high 29.0 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 5.6 assists while shooting 49.5 percent from the field.

Now, per a report from ESPN's Shams Charania, Banchero is set to return to action in Orlando either on Thursday night against the Minnesota Timberwolves or Friday night against the Milwaukee Bucks. Charania noted the 2022-23 NBA Rookie of the Year "participated fully in Wednesday's practice" and that the Magic "are expected to upgrade him to questionable on the injury report."

The Orlando Magic, including another Duke basketball product in big man Wendell Carter Jr., sit 22-16 overall and No. 4 in the Eastern Conference standings.

Last season, first-time All-Star Paolo Banchero, averaging 21.6 points, 7.0 boards, and 4.6 assists for his career, helped power the upstart Magic to a 47-35 regular season and the franchise's first playoff appearance since 2020.

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Stay tuned to Duke Blue Devils On SI for more updates on NBA Blue Devils and other Duke basketball news.

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of Duke Blue Devils on SI, North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining SI in 2022, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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