All Tar Heels

UNC Basketball Product Explodes for Season-High in Magic Victory

UNC basketball's Cole Anthony looks well on his way to reaching the NBA Playoffs for the first time in his career.

Matt Giles

Former UNC basketball guard Cole Anthony (Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports)
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Former UNC basketball one-and-done Cole Anthony was impressive again on Sunday night. He and the Orlando Magic (12-5) recorded their seventh straight victory — tied with the Phoenix Suns for the NBA's longest active winning streak — via a 130-117 home win over the Charlotte Hornets (5-10).

Anthony, who went No. 15 overall to the Magic at the 2020 NBA Draft and has averaged double-digit points in each of his four seasons in the league, came off the bench against the Hornets to tally a season-high 30 points, tying teammate Franz Wagner for the highest individual scoring total in the contest.

He shot 9-for-16 from the field, 1-for-3 from three, and 11-for-12 at the line. And it's worth noting that he's now scored 10 or more points in eight straight games.

Moreover, the 23-year-old Cole Anthony, an All-ACC weapon for the Tar Heels in 2019-20, added seven rebounds, seven assists, two steals, one block, and only two turnovers across his 32 minutes on the floor. It was one of the most complete performances of his pro career.

Those numbers bumped his season averages to 15.0 points, 4.6 boards, and 3.7 dimes in 25.9 minutes per outing.

The Magic and their lone UNC basketball talent, now only 1.0 games back of the Boston Celtics for the top spot in the Eastern Conference standings, next face the cellar-dweller Washington Wizards (2-14) in Orlando on Wednesday at 7 p.m. ET.

WATCH: Former UNC Guard Flushes Vicious Alley-Oop Poster

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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.

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