Magic conjure surprise with Banchero No.1 NBA Draft pick

Paolo Banchero was the surprise top pick at the NBA Draft on Thursday as the Orlando Magic confounded expectations by swooping for the towering teenager from Duke University.

The highly rated 19-year-old power forward -- who stands 6ft 10in (2.08m) and weighs in at 250 pounds (113kg) -- averaged 17.2 points per game in the 2021-2022 season.

Orlando's decision to opt for Banchero wrongfooted many pundits, with Jabari Smith Jr. and Chet Holmgren expected to be vying for the number one spot.

Even Banchero looked shellshocked by his selection in the immediate aftermath of NBA Commissioner Adam Silver's announcement at the Barclays Center in New York.

"I really don't know what to say," Banchero said. "I can't believe what just happened. Honestly."

Banchero later told ESPN he had been warned to be ready for anything earlier Thursday after news filtered through that Orlando remained undecided.

"I had a feeling, from the information I was being told, that it was just kind of up in the air," Banchero told ESPN. "Orlando wasn't really sure yet, and just to be ready for whatever.

"I didn't find out, though, that I was actually getting picked until about 20 seconds before the commissioner got on the stage. I didn't even have time to really think about it or anything. It just kind of happened. I can't believe it, but I'm ready."

With Banchero going with the top pick, Holmgren was snapped up by the Oklahoma City Thunder with the second selection.

The 7ft tall Holmgren was a standout for Gonzaga University, averaging 14.1 points and 9.9 rebounds for the Bulldogs.

The 20-year-old impressed with a combination of elite ball-handling and footwork as well as being an expert shot blocker.

"It's a mix of 1,000 emotions and yet I have zero words to