It took just two games for the Orlando Magic to pull first overall pick Paolo Banchero from Summer League, believing they had seen enough of the high level of play that made him their guy at June’s NBA Draft. Much like the Magic, Jordan Brand is acting swiftly to procure the services of Banchero, reportedly nearing a sneaker deal with the incoming rookie.
NBA insider Shams Charania first reported the news earlier today, saying that Banchero is expected to finalize an agreement with the brand. He would join a roster that includes veterans such as Chris Paul, Carmelo Anthony, and Russell Westbrook, as well as young stars like Luka Doncic, Jayson Tatum, and Zion Williamson.
Banchero ironically played college at Duke, the chief rival of Michael Jordan’s alma mater North Carolina. In his freshman season, he was consensus Second-Team All-American, First Team All-ACC, and ACC Rookie of the Year. He was Duke’s top player during a run to the Final Four, where the Blue Devils ultimately fell to the Tar Heels.
Jordan Brand has yet to confirm the signing of Banchero at the time of this writing.
