Bane’s Masterclass Guides Magic to Narrow 111-109 Win Over Clippers

Key Takeaways:

• Desmond Bane delivered 36 points as the Orlando Magic edged past the Los Angeles Clippers 111-109
• Kawhi Leonard scored 37 points for the Clippers after returning from an ankle sprain
• Bennedict Mathurin, in his fifth game for the Clippers, narrowly missed a game-winning shot at the buzzer

Game Analysis

Desmond Bane produced an outstanding scoring effort, finishing with 36 points to propel the Orlando Magic to a hard-fought 111-109 victory against the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday night in Inglewood. Paolo Banchero provided essential support for Orlando, contributing 16 points alongside eight assists.

Wendell Carter Jr. was pivotal in the paint, securing a double-double with 15 points and 14 rebounds. Tristan da Silva also made a notable impact with 13 points as the Magic extended their positive run to 5-2 since 5 February.

WAGIC WIN🪄 pic.twitter.com/1ZVrPS7GRd

— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) February 23, 2026

Clippers’ Standout Performances

Kawhi Leonard, who had recently been sidelined with an ankle injury, put in a resilient display by notching 37 points to lead the Clippers’ scoring. Bennedict Mathurin supplied offensive firepower off the bench, recording 21 points and nine rebounds during his fifth appearance for Los Angeles following his trade from the Indiana Pacers.

Jordan Miller added 14 points for the home side. Despite their efforts, the Clippers have gone 4-5 since 2 February.

Decisive Moments

In a contest that remained close throughout, Leonard briefly put the Clippers ahead 107-105 with just over three minutes left after sinking a jumper from the top of the key. The Magic responded swiftly, with Bane levelling the scores before converting a layup to put Orlando up 109-107 with 1:28 remaining.

While the Clippers struggled offensively, missing four consecutive attempts down the stretch, Banchero extended Orlando’s advantage to 111-107 with a crucial fast-break dunk with 40 seconds to play. In the frantic closing seconds, Bane had a shot blocked by rookie Yanic Konan Niederhauser. Mathurin rushed up the court and attempted a 25-foot three-pointer to win the game, but the effort was off target as time expired.

Shooting and Availability

Orlando claimed victory despite making just 8 of 23 attempts from beyond the arc, a marked contrast to their franchise-record 27 three-pointers made in their recent win at Sacramento. Jalen Suggs was unavailable for the Magic, missing his second consecutive game due to back spasms.

Upcoming Fixtures