Banchero averaged 20 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game for the Magic. He beat out Walker Kessler and Jalen Williams in the process.
After getting selected No. 1 overall in the 2022 NBA Draft, Paolo Banchero received his first award as an NBA player.
The Orlando Magic forward has been named the NBA Rookie of the Year, beating out Walker Kessler and Jalen Williams in the process.
In his first year in the league, Banchero averaged 20 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game for the Magic.
"He's a special talent and the ability of his to get to the pain and create his own shot is incredible. He's getting better. I feel like he has a bright future in this league, and as long as he works hard, he's going to be really good," two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo has said about Banchero.
The big debate has been looming recently whether Banchero will play for the Italian national team or whether he will choose to play for Team USA. Although both federations have been trying their best to persuade the highly sought-after talent, Banchero hasn't made an official decision yet.
