Despite a spirited performance, the Osceola Magic’s playoff run came to an end at Osceola Heritage Park on Friday night, as they succumbed to the Long Island Nets with a score of 120-112. Amidst the setback, Mac McClung shone with a game-high 28 points, demonstrating remarkable precision from beyond the arc at 44% three-point shooting.
“Coach helped me grow so much this year,” McClung said. “He pushed me to do things I didn’t want to do, but he encouraged me to develop new skills like off-the-dribble shooting. That’s the beauty of basketball; we try to figure out new ways to improve and grow into the player we want to become each season.”
The Magic showcased a formidable defense with 12 blocks and a strong offensive presence inside, eclipsing the Nets with a 54-46 advantage in the paint. They also excelled at the charity stripe, hitting 12 of 13 free throws. Despite these strengths, they were hindered by 19 costly turnovers. In a thrilling moment, Mac McClung’s clutch basket just before the third-quarter buzzer marked Osceola’s final lead of the game. Thereafter, the Magic struggled to regain the upper hand, trailing through the concluding quarter.
“We never stopped fighting, and I’m proud of this team,” head coach Dylan Murphy said. “With the team we have, you know you can compete any night. All our guys played together and shared the ball. I’m excited to see the opportunities these guys will get this summer.”
Trevelin Queen had 26 points, nine rebounds and seven assists in the loss.
“There’s a goal and a purpose bigger than ourselves,” Queen said. “Coach did a great job of managing everyone on this team. It’s tough to have so many guys who can score on one team and ensure no one gets selfish. There are a lot of egos, attitudes, and pride. He brought out the best in all of us this season. Hats off to the coach.”
The Osceola Magic, NBA G League Affiliate of the Orlando Magic, finished the 2023-24 season 22-12 and were the number one seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. For ticket information for the 2024-25 season, call 407-447-2140 or email info@OsceolaMagic.com.
