"He Understands That Winning Comes First": Desmond Bane Offers Praise For New Teammate Paolo Banchero

When the 2025 NBA offseason began, the first big name that changed teams was Desmond Bane, who was traded by the Memphis Grizzlies to the Orlando Magic. Compared to other players who changed ZIP codes, Bane has had the most time to acclimate to his new home.

That includes getting to know the different players on the Magic roster, and as far as Bane is concerned, the team’s franchise player is a wonder to behold. Appearing on “The Kevin O’Connor Show,” the Magic forward described what makes Paolo Banchero stand out among his peers.

“We just had a team mini camp in Vegas…me and P, we spent a lot of time together,” Bane revealed. “He just wants to win. And I feel like that’s rare. No. 1 picks, young All-Stars, everybody’s still trying to make a name for themselves and chase. But he understands that winning comes first.”

Bane, who entered the NBA two years before Banchero went first overall in the 2022 draft, added that he is holding the 22-year-old power forward to a high standard.

“I expect a big season out of him, and I think he expects a big season out of himself,” Bane said. “More than anything, I could just feel the hunger that he has coming into the season. So, I’m super excited to get around him, and I’m happy to be able to complement his skill set.”

Banchero, of course, is a gifted playmaker who effortlessly finds open teammates for easy scoring opportunities. Great finds are exactly what Bane needs, as he fits comfortably into the role of three-and-D wing with the Grizzlies.

Bane, then, will be able to help out Orlando in terms of providing more firepower to their perimeter attack. Aside from improving the Magic’s shooting clip from beyond the arc, he’ll also give the team another veteran leader in the locker room.

From the looks of it, Bane has buy-in from the Magic’s top player. The chemistry between Bane and Banchero will be integral to Orlando’s success as they seek to become a consistent playoff contender.