Orlando, FL – The wait is finally over. After months of anticipation, roster moves, and a fresh new identity, Orlando Magic basketball returns this weekend. The Magic open their preseason on October 4th against the Miami Heat in Puerto Rico — a fitting stage to unveil the next chapter of this young team’s journey.

A Summer of Change

This offseason brought more than just minor tweaks. Orlando underwent a complete brand refresh, signaling a new era both on and off the court. The updated look comes with a clear message: the Magic aren’t just building, they’re ready to compete.

The front office made one of the splashiest moves of the summer by pulling off a blockbuster trade for Desmond Bane, adding a proven two-way guard to a roster already rich with young talent. Bane’s shooting and experience balance out Orlando’s core of Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs—giving the Magic a legitimate weapon on the perimeter they sorely needed.

The Magic also signed veteran point guard Tyus Jones to a one-year deal, bringing in an elite playmaker and three-point shooter known for his low turnovers and efficient offense. Jones’ steady presence and passing should stabilize Orlando’s bench, boost the team’s perimeter shooting, and help unlock the potential of star scorers Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner this season.

On draft night, the team didn’t disappoint either. Though the Magic didn’t have a top lottery pick this year, they came away with solid contributors who fit their identity: tough, versatile players capable of defending multiple positions and playing unselfish basketball.

The Magic drafted guard Jase Richardson with the 25th pick and French swingman Noah Penda at 32. Richardson brings high IQ and efficient scoring from Michigan State, while Penda offers energy, defensive versatility, and solid experience from France’s pro leagues, giving the Magic two eager, high-motor rookies to add depth and intensity off the bench.

New Voices on the Sideline

Beyond roster additions, changes were also made to Jamahl Mosley’s coaching staff. New assistant voices bring fresh perspectives to player development and in-game adjustments—an important step for a franchise determined to turn promise into postseason results. These tweaks might not make the headlines like a trade does, but they could have a big impact as the season unfolds.

The Magic strengthened their coaching staff for the 2025-26 NBA season by adding veteran assistant Joe Prunty, a three-time NBA champion with the Spurs, and player development expert God Shammgod. Their experience and leadership underscore the Magic’s push to blend rising young talent with proven guidance as they look to accelerate their growth and remain playoff contenders

What to Expect

For the first time in over a decade, there’s real momentum in Orlando. Paolo Banchero looks primed to continue his rise as one of the NBA’s brightest young stars, while Wagner’s consistency and two-way play cement him as the perfect running mate. With Jalen Suggs, Anthony Black, Wendell Carter Jr., and now Desmond Bane rounding out the core, the Magic boast depth and balance across all positions.

The challenge? Taking the leap from an exciting young squad to a serious playoff contender. The last two seasons proved they have the foundation. This season, the Magic are looking to build on that success—turning close games into wins and taking command in the Eastern Conference standings.

Tip-Off in Puerto Rico

The journey begins Saturday night in San Juan, where the Magic and Heat will face off in their first preseason clash. The matchup may not count in the standings, but it carries symbolic weight: the official return of Magic basketball. After all the draft prep, summer workouts, trade buzz, and new jerseys, fans finally get to see it all come together on the court.

Orlando Magic basketball is back, and this time, it feels different.