Live updates: Celtics fall to Magic in NBA Cup matchup
The Boston Celtics traveled to face the Orlando Magic on Friday night, aiming to reach a 2-0 record in Group B play of the 2025 NBA Cup. However, the Magic prevailed 123-110 at Kia Center, handing Boston its first tournament loss.
Game highlights
Jaylen Brown delivered a standout performance with 32 points on 15-of-28 shooting, scoring 18 of those in the second half. Anfernee Simons contributed 11 points, all of them in the fourth quarter. Despite Boston’s late surge, Orlando controlled the decisive minutes of the game.
Team performance
- Orlando opened with a blazing start, leading by 16 midway through the first quarter.
- The Magic shot 49% from the field and 50% from beyond the arc (9-for-18) in the first half.
- Boston’s improved defense in the third quarter cut the deficit, and a Derrick White basket briefly gave them the lead early in the fourth.
- Orlando ended strong, finishing on a 28-14 run over the final six minutes to seal the win.
“It represented Boston’s first loss in Group B of the 2025 NBA Cup.”
What’s next
The Celtics drop to 1-1 in tournament play and will face the Detroit Pistons and Brooklyn Nets later this month as Group B action continues.
Author’s summary: Despite Jaylen Brown’s dominant 32-point effort, Boston’s late rally fell short as Orlando’s sharp shooting and closing run handed the Celtics their first NBA Cup setback.