Desmond Bane's 36-Point Explosion Lifts Magic Past Clippers in Nail-Biter

NBA · By Marcus Chen · February 23, 2026
Desmond Bane's 36-Point Explosion Lifts Magic Past Clippers in Nail-Biter
Desmond Bane delivered a standout performance Sunday night, pouring in 36 points to propel the Orlando Magic to a hard-fought 111-109 win against the Los Angeles Clippers. The game showcased Bane's offensive prowess and underscored Orlando's growing confidence as they weathered a late surge from the Clippers. Bane's scoring output proved decisive, marking one of his best games of the season and helping Orlando maintain control in a contest that was tight throughout. He consistently found ways to attack the defense, whether through spot-up shooting or aggressive drives to the rim, keeping Clippers defenders scrambling and off balance.
  • Bane led all scorers with 36 points, demonstrating a versatile scoring arsenal.
  • Paolo Banchero contributed 16 points and distributed eight assists, facilitating the Magic offense and setting up teammates for open looks.
  • The Magic held off a late Clippers rally to secure the two-point win.
  • Final score: Magic 111, Clippers 109.
The Magic's offense was orchestrated by Paolo Banchero, whose eight assists complemented his 16-point contribution. Banchero's playmaking ensured Orlando maintained offensive rhythm, especially in pivotal moments. His ability to manage the ball and find Bane in scoring positions gave the team a crucial edge. The Clippers, despite a determined effort to claw back in the fourth quarter, couldn't overcome Bane's scoring burst. Orlando's defensive resilience in the closing minutes was on display, as they managed to contain Los Angeles and prevent them from tying or overtaking the lead. The win adds to Orlando's momentum as they push through the latter stages of the NBA season, with Bane's performance signaling his rising star power. Banchero's growth as a facilitator further enhances the team's offensive versatility, suggesting the Magic are poised for more competitive outings against playoff-caliber opponents. For fans and analysts tracking the Magic's progress, Bane's 36-point night stands out as a testament to the team's evolving identity and ability to execute under pressure.

Sources

  1. [1]ESPN NBA