By Ben Church, CNNUpdated 0918 GMT (1718 HKT) June 24, 2022 Paolo Banchero reacts after being drafted first overall by the Orlando Magic.(CNN)The Orlando Magic selected Paolo Banchero as the first pick of the 2022 NBA Draft on Thursday.
Banchero, 19, played for Duke University, averaging 17.2 points, 7.8 rebounds and 3.2 assists in 39 starts.The forward seemed to shine under the intense pressure of the draft, donning a purple suit and struggling to contain his excitement.«This isn't even a dream.
I feel like this is a fantasy. I dreamed of being in the NBA, but being the No. 1 overall pick, this is crazy,» Banchero told reporters, while sitting next to his mom. «I don't even know what to say.
I can't believe what just happened, honestly. I wanted to be in the NBA, but I didn't know I would be here.»Read MoreBanchero says he's planning to bring «everything» he has to Orlando Magic who struggled last season with a record of 22-60.«First off, just a winning mindset, a work-first mindset,» he added. «Just ready to get in with the guys and get to work.