Orlando Magic was a quiet team that steadily rose to the ranks thanks to their All-Star, Paolo Banchero. A five-star recruit, the Duke product was the Magic’s first pick in the 2022 draft. And since then, he’s been nothing short of remarkable. As is a common theme among young hoopers, Banchero is also not immune to the charms of LeBron James.

Joining Taylor Rooks for an exclusive interview to talk about his progress so far, the 21-year-old forward reveals just how in awe he is of the “King”. He primarily talks about James’s incredible basketball IQ. And it’s not a surprise at all! In his 21st year now, LeBron surely knows what he is doing on the court. Watching him direct the players on the court, Paolo says, “I’m just watching like, ‘Damn! He done seen this for 19 – 20 years. He knows he could do this with his eyes closed.”

Having a feel for the court is definitely one of the most important attributes of a basketball player. Couple that with the kind of confidence and skills that form LeBron and you have got a natural leader, drawing everyone in with his never-failing charisma. But more importantly, the years of experience he’s gathered from playing in the league enable him to predict the next move and use the best suitable player in the team to face it.

Banchero believes that he is well on his way to being on the same level as the ‘Akron Hammer’ in terms of high basketball IQ.

Paolo Banchero on what it means to have a high basketball IQ

Paolo seems to put a lot of importance on high IQ. According to him, it should include, “to not only have a feel for your game but also your teammates, and everyone around you.” This is the mindset of someone preparing himself to be a leader.

Paolo Banchero’s Advice to Victor Wembanyama for “Lofty Expectations” on a Rookie

Watching Banchero on-court, there is no doubt that he is taking lessons, implementing them, and steadily improving himself, and by extension, his team. Explaining further, he was confident in the fact that he has become better at understanding his teammates. And it has helped him in getting them to spots that give them the advantage, playing to one’s strengths, if you will.

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The Orlando Magic is currently the fifth seed in the East with a 37-17 record. There is no doubt that Paolo Banchero will take this team to even greater heights in the foreseeable future!