All Tar Heels

Credit UNC Basketball Product for Keeping Magic Win Streak Alive

Former UNC basketball playmaker Cole Anthony and the Magic are now up to eight straight victories.

Matt Giles

Former UNC basketball guard Cole Anthony (Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports)
In this story:

At eight games, the Orlando Magic (13-5) now boast the longest active win streak in the NBA and sit at No. 2 in the Eastern Conference standings. They extended their remarkable stretch via Wednesday night's 139-120 home win over the Washington Wizards. And UNC basketball pro Cole Anthony led the bench in scoring (and blocks).

Anthony, whose streak of eight outings with over 10 points coincides with Orlando's win streak, finished with 25 points, six rebounds, five assists, two blocks, and only one turnover across his 26 minutes of action.

The 23-year-old guard shot 9-for-16 from the field, same as his season-high 30-point effort three nights earlier in a home win over the Charlotte Hornets. This time, he ended up 3-for-5 beyond the arc and 4-for-5 at the charity stripe.

Through 18 games this season, Cole Anthony's fourth with the Magic since coming off the board No. 15 overall at the 2020 NBA Draft following his one-and-done stay with the UNC basketball program, he is averaging 15.6 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 3.8 assists.

Not bad for a reserve. Speaking of that, there's no doubt the son of former NBA journeyman Greg Anthony is quickly climbing his way toward the top of the list of contenders for the NBA Sixth Man of the Year honor.

He and the Magic will look to make it nine straight when they host the Wizards again on Friday at 7 p.m. ET.

NBA Tar Heel Explodes for Season-High in Magic Victory

Stay tuned to All Tar Heels on SI.com for more UNC basketball news.

Published
Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, Duke Blue Devils on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining UNC on SI in 2023, 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.

Home/Basketball