Why Orlando Magic Guard Jalen Suggs 'Loves' Rookie Anthony Black

Being two players that came from similar backgrounds, Jalen Suggs and Anthony Black have developed chemistry among the Orlando Magic's strenuous battle for starting spots.

Many young teams typically have chemistry problems when it comes to battles for starting positions, but unlike most young teams, the Orlando Magic do not have that problem. Guards Anthony Black and Jalen Suggs are far from enemies, and their chemistry is a good sign for this team.

"I love that draft pick," Suggs said. "I love AB and great kid. Great kid, I'm two years older. He's a great person. You know, we spent a lot of time here together since he's gotten here and you know, kind of whenever he's in town, we get on the court together."

Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs / © Nathan Ray Seebeck, USA TODAY

Black comes off a one-and-done season at Arkansas where he, along with fellow draftees Nick Smith and Jordan Walsh, brought his team to the Sweet 16 where they would be knocked out by eventual champion UConn.

Suggs comes from a surprisingly similar situation. 

In his one-and-done year at Gonzaga, Suggs along with Andrew Nembhard (Pacers), Corey Kispert (Wizards), Joel Ayayi (Wizards) and now NBA rookies Drew Timme (Bucks) and Julian Strawther (Nuggets) made their way to the National Championship game undefeated before losing to Baylor. Suggs would be an integral piece to that team, just at Black was to Arkansas.

With so much one-and-done talent in Orlando (Suggs and Black, but also Paolo Banchero, Markelle Fultz, Wendell Carter Jr, Cole Anthony, Jonathan Isaac, Jett Howard, and Caleb Houstan), there is a lot of development to be had. The combination of experience and youth proves vital for a team that has championship aspirations in the future.