Desmond Bane, a guard for the Orlando Magic, made a significant impact on November 10, 2025. He achieved his first career game-winning buzzer-beater, sealing a dramatic 115-112 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers at the Kia Center.
Magic’s Bane Breaks Slump with Buzzer-Beating Three-Pointer
Before this crucial moment, Bane was struggling with his 3-point shooting, missing his first five attempts during the game. On the season, he was shooting only 26% from long range. However, his last attempt made all the difference.
Game Highlights
- Final Score: Magic 115, Trail Blazers 112
- Bane’s Performance: 22 points, 1-for-6 from 3-point range
- Team Record: Magic improved to 5-6
- Top Performer: Paolo Banchero scored 28 points
Leading by as much as 13 points in the fourth quarter, the Magic faced a tense finish. Despite being without starting point guard Jalen Suggs, they held a nine-point advantage with just over two minutes left. However, a late surge by the Blazers, led by Jerami Grant, shifted the momentum.
Clutch Moments
As the clock wound down, the Blazers took a temporary 112-110 lead following an alley-oop and foul. Banchero quickly responded with a driving layup, though he struggled at the free-throw line, missing a crucial shot that could have given the Magic the lead.
Following a timeout, Bane capitalized on a screen from Wendell Carter Jr. He received the inbounds pass with 1.9 seconds left and, after taking a quick dribble, launched a twisting, fading three-pointer over defender Jrue Holiday, sinking the shot just before time expired.
Significance of the Shot
This moment is historic for Bane. By hitting this game-winning shot, he became only the fourth player in Orlando Magic history to make a buzzer-beating 3-pointer. The other players include Cole Anthony (2021), Jameer Nelson (2011), and Hedo Turkoglu (2008).
“It was a rush of excitement for sure,” Banchero said. “He’s a big-time player. He stayed with it the whole game.” Bane’s buzzer-beater not only lifted his team’s spirits but also marked a pivotal turn in his early-season struggles with the Magic.
