Magic's Paolo Banchero Playing Center for Team USA?
ORLANDO - Orlando Magic star Paolo Banchero is inching closer to his FIBA World Cup debut with Team USA next month.
In Monday's scrimmage against Puerto Rico, Banchero scored seven points in 17 minutes off the bench. Given the fact that he's the youngest member of the squad, Banchero isn't expected to play as much for Team USA as he did with the Magic in his rookie season.
However, Banchero may see a different role for the national team.
“One of the things we really found in [2021] in the Tokyo Olympics was having a 5 who can push the ball and transition and create plays is very difficult for FIBA teams to handle," USA coach Steve Kerr said. "So he can play some 4, as he showed, but he’ll play plenty of 5, as well.”
Given the Magic's size, Banchero would almost always have a big man to play alongside. But maybe his Team USA experience could translate to the NBA.
The Magic drafted two rookie "guards" in Anthony Black and Jett Howard, creating a crowded backcourt. However, if Banchero could play the "center" position, then it could give players in that backcourt more playing time.
Orlando prides itself on being one of the longest teams in the league, but if Banchero can flash potential playing as a center, then the Magic can become even more versatile than it already is.
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