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Paolo Banchero: COVID Stole My Hype
28 Aug
Summary
- Paolo Banchero feels COVID pandemic impacted his league recognition.
- He missed his high school senior year and McDonald's All-American Game.
- Banchero's draft class faced unique challenges due to pandemic shutdowns.
Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero, a prominent young star, believes the COVID-19 pandemic adversely affected his public perception within the NBA. Banchero, selected first overall in the 2022 draft, noted that disruptions caused by the pandemic meant he missed crucial developmental experiences.
He explained that his high school senior year was conducted online, and he never participated in the prestigious McDonald's All-American Game. These experiences, which often generate significant hype for top prospects like Zion Williamson and Cooper Flagg, were curtailed for his draft class.
Banchero's draft class was particularly affected, with college seasons also impacted by health crisis protocols. While the NBA navigated its own challenges, including a suspended season and a bubble, Banchero feels the pandemic robbed him of opportunities for greater pre-league recognition.
Despite these circumstances, Banchero has delivered strong performance statistics for the Magic. He averaged 22.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game. He anticipates a strong upcoming season that could finally bring him the widespread acclaim he feels is deserved.
