For the first time in a long time, the Orlando Magic are clearly the state’s superior basketball franchise. Not for a week, not for a season, not for a couple of seasons — but for the foreseeable future.

The Orlando Magic had until October 31st to decide their choice on the options of Tristan da Silva, Anthony Black, and Jett Howard. With the Magic's big 4 of Ba

Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner scored 24 points each, Desmond Bane added 23 in his Orlando debut, and the Magic beat the Miami Heat 125-121 in the season opener for both teams.

Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel) Orlando guard Desmond Bane (3) and forward Franz Wagner (22) celebrate during the Miami Heat at Orlando Magic NBA game at the Kia Center on Wednesday. Orlando won the game 125-121.

Wagner made seven of his first eight shots, blowing past Jaime Jaquez Jr. with a jaw-dropping euro-step, hitting a step-back three over Nikola Jovic and draining a difficult floater over Bam Adebayo. He wasn't as efficient down the stretch, but he looked confident and creative every time he had the rock throughout the night.

Wednesday’s opening night game at Kia Center marked the eighth time the Magic and Heat have faced each other to open an NBA season.

Everything you need to know about the NBA matchup between the Orlando Magic and the Miami Heat, including how to watch and team news.

BOTTOM LINE: The Orlando Magic begin the season at home against the Miami Heat. Orlando went 41-41 overall, 31-21 in Eastern Conference games and 22-19 at home during the 2024-25 season. The Magic averaged 105.4 points per game while shooting 44.5% from the field and 31.8% from 3-point distance last season.