Magic Claw Back, Defeat 76ers on the Road

Despite digging an early hole, the Orlando Magic (20-31) defeated the Philadelphia 76ers (32-17) on the road Monday evening.

ORLANDO - The Philadelphia 76ers may have punched first, but the Orlando Magic got the last laugh in Monday's contest. 

Defeating the 76ers 119-109 in front of their home fans, this was not an easy win by any means for Orlando. 

After trailing by 17-4 in the opening quarter and by as many as 21 in the first half, the Magic was forced to claw its way back - cutting the deficit to 10 entering the half. 

A big third quarter from Orlando proved to be the momentum shifter, outscoring Philadelphia 40-28 including a big 16 points from No. 1 overall pick Paolo Banchero.

Banchero (29) led the way for the Magic offense, followed by Moe Wagner (22) off the bench and Franz Wagner (19). 

Markelle Fultz (10 points and 10 assists) notched his first double-double of the season and eighth of the floor generals five-year career. 

For Philadelphia, Joel Embiid (30) led the way offensively, followed by Tobias Harris and James Harden each contributing 17 points a piece. 

The 21-point comeback marks the largest deficit overcome this season, and 6th largest in franchise history. 

The Magic and 76ers are back in action on Wednesday at the Wells Fargo Center. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.

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