Paolo Banchero sets goals for rookie year, reveals where he wants to improve

Former Duke Blue Devil Paolo Banchero became the fourth top selection in Orlando Magic history when they picked him No. 1 overall in the 2022 NBA Draft. Banchero’s all-around game put him in contention to be one of the first selections in this draft class. After a lot of debate from those following the class, Banchero came out on top on the day of the NBA Draft. With that honor behind him, it’s now all about living up to the expectations that come with it.

Mike Miller, Banchero’s agent and president of LIFT Sports Management, won NBA Rookie of the Year in 2001 when he was with Orlando. Banchero says his expectations are to get even with his agent and win one of his own with the franchise.

“I definitely want to match Mike and get a Rookie of the Year in Orlando if possible,” said Banchero in his introductory press conference. “He’s just (been) telling me from the beginning how great of a place Orlando was, how much he liked it. How much he likes the people here and how he still has great relationships here. I’m just blessed to be here. It’s just kind of funny how it all worked out.”

While he’s an NBA ready prospect, Banchero must continue to prepare himself for his 82 game rookie season. Not only will he need to develop his body but add new facets to his game too. One area of improvement he says he’s worked on is his shot from distance. Banchero shot 33.8% from three during his lone season in Durham. Alongside Miller, a career 40.7% shooter from deep as a pro, he’s actively working on it to better transition to the perimeter style of the NBA.

“I’ve just been trying to keep everything sharp. (I’m) really just focusing on my three point shot, working with Mike, and really locking in on that,” Banchero said. “Just keeping my conditioning up as well. (Working) 1-on-0, sometimes you can fall too deep into it and lose conditioning. Just incorporating some conditioning in there and staying in good shape.”

The 6’10 product from Seattle can be an impact player in the league from day one. Adding game changers like efficiency from deep and endurance will only make him a more probable candidate for Rookie of the Year. The Magic will get their first look at what Banchero has worked at when he debuts in the NBA Summer League on July 7th on ESPN.