Magic Rookie Anthony Black 'Getting Acclimated' After Second Game

The Orlando Magic Summer League team dropped its second matchup in Las Vegas, but there's still optimism from rookie Anthony Black.

The Orlando Magic Summer League team dropped its second game in Las Vegas to the Indiana Pacers in a 108-85 game. After a stale first half, the Magic won the third quarter, finally picking up momentum. That was thanks to the bench, though. 

"I think the second group really turned it around to be honest," Magic rookie Anthony Black said. "It was definitely good on the second group for coming in with energy and picking up the first group."

Black finished the game with eight points on 3-of-12 shooting. He was still productive though, bringing in seven boards, dishing three assists and grabbing two steals. More importantly, Black is able to get quality reps and get a feel for NBA game speed and adapt to the differences from college.

"Those are probably going to be some of the dudes we see in the season," Black said. "It's good kind of getting acclimated to that and kind of the strength and speed of the game. I think definitely it'll help."

A big part of the physicality of the NBA can be felt on the defensive end. NBA players are immensely more talented than college hoopers, and will both bully defenders while hitting tough shots.

"It's the NBA, so dudes make tough shots," Black said. "I think I'm doing a pretty good job staying in front. Those matchups are tough. I like the matchups, I like to guard."

It's a good sign for the Magic that Black is willing not only take on the toughest matchup on the court, but does so knowing that it's only making him better. 

Another benefit the Magic are getting in Summer League is building chemistry amongst the team. One roster member that Black is able to build a connection with is fellow rookie Jett Howard. 

"Good," Black said of his chemistry with Howard. "Good kid and good player. I enjoy playing with him. Enjoy being with him off the court, too."

It's not just Black and Howard building chemistry, as some of their Magic teammates on the main roster, including Rookie of the Year Paolo Banchero, were supporting the Summer Magic court side. 

"It's cool," Black said of his Magic teammates watching courtside. "It also gives us a lot of energy. Definitely thankful for them coming to the games even though they didn't have to."

Overall, it's important not to make any real conclusions at Summer League, just observations, and Black being able to thrive in real NBA spacing is one observation Magic fans have to look forward to. 

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You can follow Kade Kimble on Twitter @KadeKimble.

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