October 21, 2025
Basketball season has returned to Orlando, and the buzz surrounding the Magic is impossible to ignore. Expectations for the 2025-26 season are high, with many analysts projecting Orlando as a top-four team in the Eastern Conference — and some even predicting a top-three seed. This year feels like the moment when the Magic’s patient rebuild transforms into a legitimate run toward contention.
A Team on the Rise
After last season’s playoff breakthrough, the Magic are poised for an even bigger leap. A healthy core led by Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner anchors a team that’s maturing fast. Add in the offseason arrival of Desmond Bane, who brings elite shooting and perimeter toughness, and this roster suddenly looks deeper and more dangerous than ever.
Under Coach Jamahl Mosley, Orlando is expected to play a more up-tempo offensive style, pushing the pace while maintaining the defensive identity that made them one of last year’s toughest teams to score against. This is a group that’s young, confident, and ready to prove it belongs among the East’s elite.
The Kia Center Experience
The KIA CENTER continues to be one of the NBA’s best game-day venues — modern, vibrant, and full of energy. From its immersive lighting and massive center-hung scoreboard to the local food favorites and skyline views, attending a game here feels like being part of something bigger than basketball.
When the Magic hit their stride and the crowd rises with them, the building absolutely roars. Few sports experiences in Orlando match the energy of a packed Kia Center on game night.
Must-See Home Games
This year’s schedule brings some of the league’s brightest stars and biggest storylines to downtown Orlando. Here are the home games to circle on your calendar:
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BOSTON CELTICS – November 7: Even without Jayson Tatum, Boston remains one of the most complete and disciplined teams in the East.
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GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS – November 18: Steph Curry brings his timeless shooting clinic to the Kia Center in what’s always a must-see matchup.
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NEW YORK KNICKS – November 22: The Knicks’ physical style and massive fan following make for one of the loudest games of the season.
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SAN ANTONION SPURS – December 3: All eyes on Victor Wembanyama versus Banchero — a glimpse into the NBA’s future frontcourt battles.
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DENVER NUGGETS – December 27: Nikola Jokić leads a veteran Nuggets team that remains one of the league’s toughest matchups.
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MILWAUKEE BUCKS – February 11: Giannis Antetokounmpo is still a force, and this mid-season showdown will test Orlando’s interior defense.
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HOUSTON ROCKETS – February 26: Kevin Durant and Houston’s explosive young roster bring plenty of firepower to town.
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DALLAS MAVERICKS – March 5: The Mavericks now feature Anthony Davis and #1 overall pick Cooper Flagg, making them one of the league’s most-watched teams.
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OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER – March 17: The defending NBA champions visit for a St. Patrick’s Day matchup that could feel like a playoff preview.
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LOS ANGELES LAKERS – March 21: LeBron James and Luka Dončić — together in purple and gold — headline one of the hottest tickets of the season.
Feel the Magic
With a talented young roster, an exciting new offensive approach, and a home arena that truly amplifies every moment, the 2025-26 season feels like the next major step for the Orlando Magic. They’re no longer rebuilding — they’re arriving.
So grab your jersey, head downtown, and get ready to witness a team that’s out to make noise in the East. Because this year, the Magic aren’t just playing for progress — they’re playing to win.
View the full Orlando Magic schedule and buy tickets HERE.
Header image by Mike Watters
