Episodes
In this Orlando Magic HQ podcast episode: - Missed opportunity in Game 5 - Looking back at the last possession… was it the right decision? - Where is Cole Anthony? - Preview and predictions for Games 6 and… 7? - Paul George rumors ... and much more!
Published 05/03/24
Published 05/03/24
In this episode, Stephen is joined once again by Malik Grady, and they are pumped about the Orlando Magic's playoff resurgence. They discuss how the Magic have tightened up their defense and key players like Paulo and Jalen Suggs are shining. They also touch on how intense the series has been and the trash-talking so far... the series is heating up. Looking ahead, the upcoming games are make-or-break, but they are optimistic about the Magic winning the series in six. Finally, they give...
Published 04/30/24
In this Orlando Magic HQ podcast episode: - Magic spank the Cavs by 38 points in game 3 - Wendell is back in the starting lineup - Suggs' impressive game after an injury scare in game 2 - Will our vets step up the rest of the series? … and much more.
Published 04/26/24
The Orlando Magic are down 2-0 in the first-round series against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Magic's defense has been solid, holding the Cavs to under 100 points in both games. However, the Magic are struggling offensively, scoring only 83 and 86 points in the two games. The Cavs' defense is preventing the Magic from playing their usual style, particularly in the paint. The Magic are also struggling with rebounding, allowing the Cavs to get numerous offensive rebounds. Turnovers and slow...
Published 04/23/24
In this Orlando Magic HQ podcast episode: - Similarities between the Cavs and the Magic - Storylines heading into the series - Keys for the Magic to advance - Our prediction for the first three games … and much more.
Published 04/19/24
This conversation with Jake Chapman, Orlando Magic Radio play-by-play announcer, covers various topics related to the Magic's playoff experience and the team's performance throughout the season. We also discuss the excitement and anticipation of the playoffs, the growth and development of the young team, the impact of coach Jamal Mosley, and the surprising improvement in Jalen Suggs' three-point shooting. The conversation also touches on the team's defensive prowess, the need for offensive...
Published 04/16/24
In this episode of the Orlando Magic HQ podcast, we discuss the Magic crucial win against the Bucks, securing their spot in the NBA playoffs as the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference. Anthony and Al express excitement and relief at making it to the playoffs and discuss the upcoming first-round matchup against the Cavaliers. They analyze the strengths and weaknesses of both teams and make their predictions for the series. Lastly, they reflect on the Magic's successful season and the...
Published 04/15/24
In the newest episode of The Close Up podcast, we're stoked to welcome Orlando Magic HQ Post Game Spaces Co-Host, Bryce Woolley! Bryce and Stephen talk about quite a few topics, ranging from the Magic remaining schedule, ideal playoff matchups, what would make a playoff successful, and so much more! Make sure you check out Bryce after every Magic game live on X/Twitter, on the Orlando Magic HQ Post Game Spaces.
Published 04/09/24
In this episode of the Orlando Magic HQ podcast, Al and Anthony discuss the team's goal of making the playoffs with home-court advantage. We discuss the recent games against the Clippers, Grizzlies, Blazers, and Pelicans and the importance of maintaining composure and playing to the Magic's standard. We also analyze the current standings and potential playoff matchups, with Anthony expressing his desire to face the Knicks and Shaquille O'Neal's prediction of the Magic sweeping the Knicks in...
Published 04/05/24
In the newest episode of The Close Up podcast, we're stoked to welcome 96.9 Orlando In The Zone, Magic Pre-Game Radio host, and host of the Zone Heads podcast, Brandon Kravitz. Brandon and Stephen talk about quite a few interesting topics. They start off discussing how Brandon got into sports radio, the Magic team culture, the final game stretch, playoff expectations, and more. Make sure you check out Brandon on 96.9 every Monday through Friday 3-6 pm and his podcast Zone Heads.
Published 04/02/24
X
In this episode of the Orlando Magic HQ podcast, Anthony, Al, and Stephen discuss the team's current standing and outlook as they fight for a playoff spot. They review recent games, including a tough loss to the Sacramento Kings and the Golden State Warriors. They also highlight Jonathan Isaac's impressive performance and the impact of missing Gary Harris. They also emphasize the need for improved decision-making in clutch situations and the importance of finding a reliable shooting guard....
Published 03/29/24
In this Orlando Magic HQ podcast episode: - Magic bounced back after two disappointing losses - Jalen Suggs impact on this team - Coach Mosley extension - Magic tried to acquire Klay at the deadline? ... and much more.
Published 03/15/24
In the newest episode of The Close Up podcast, we're stoked to welcome Orlando Magic Writer and Digital Content Manager for Orlandomagic.com, Josh Cohen to the show. Josh and Stephen talk about quite a few interesting topics. They start off discussing how the Magic offensively have been playing better when facing a zone defense. They then transition into the physicality of the playoffs and deep dive a bit on how Jonathan Isaac is a special defender that can and should elevate the team come...
Published 03/12/24
In this Orlando Magic HQ podcast episode: - Magic continue to shock the NBA - National media lack of knowledge about the Magic - Anthony Black’s development - Crucial games this weekend … and much more!
Published 03/08/24
In the newest episode of The Close Up podcast, we're stoked to welcome Malik Grady to the show. A Magic Twitter OG. Together, they dive into a bunch of topics including, the remaining schedule, and Orlando Magic Writer Josh Cohen's latest article on 3pt shooting. They also each pick out interesting data points on the Bucks, Knicks and Cavs, who all could be potential Playoff matchups. This is a conversation you simply can't afford to overlook.
Published 03/05/24
In this Orlando Magic HQ podcast episode: - Magic’s solid play continues - JI injury scare and return to the lineup - Is Jalen Suggs our third star player? - Realistic expectations for the Playoffs … and much more!
Published 03/04/24
In the newest episode of The Close Up podcast, we're stoked to welcome Charles Skinny Hardaway, Orlando Magic HQ's newest media member. Together, they dive into an array of subjects, from the rest up and down play of the team since the return from break, specific rotation situations the Magic could be in based on injuries and injury updates. Additionally, they provide insightful analysis of the Orlando Magic's upcoming schedule as they navigate toward the playoffs. This is a conversation you...
Published 02/27/24
In this episode of the Orlando Magic HQ Podcast: - Thoughts on All-Star Weekend - Huge win in Cleveland - Klay Thompson Rumors - Record and seeding predictions … and much more!
Published 02/23/24
In the newest episode of The Close Up Podcast, we're delighted to welcome Alex Kennedy, a prominent voice in sports journalism from ESPN and Basketball News. Together, they delve into an array of captivating subjects, from the emotional retirement of Shaq's jersey to the electrifying NBA All-Star weekend. Additionally, they provide insightful analysis of the Orlando Magic's upcoming schedule as they navigate toward the playoffs. This is a conversation you can't afford to overlook. Don't...
Published 02/20/24
In this Orlando Magic HQ podcast episode, Anthony and Al discuss the most recent games, including the excitement of having Paolo represent the team in the All-Star Game. They also talk about Shaquille O'Neal's jersey retirement ceremony and its mixed reactions, the current state of the team, and the expectations for the second half of the season. They also address questions sent in by our listeners and followers and much more.
Published 02/16/24
In the latest installment of The Close Up podcast, we're thrilled to have Dan Savage, Director of Digital News and writer for OrlandoMagic.com! The two discuss various topics, from the Magic's current impressive play, Shaq's jersey retirement, Paolo’s All-Star weekend, the trade deadline, and much more! 
Published 02/13/24
In this episode of the Orlando Magic HQ podcast, Anthony and Stephen discuss the disappointment of the NBA trade deadline and the Magic's decision to stand pat. They also explore potential buyout candidates and the team's challenges in making the playoffs, their excitement for Paolo Banchero's All-Star selection and discuss Matt McClung's participation in the Slam Dunk Contest. The conversation concludes with a look ahead to the All-Star break and the second half of the season.
Published 02/09/24
In the latest installment of The Close Up podcast, we're thrilled to have Philip Rossman-Reich of Locked-ON Magic and Orlando Magic Daily! The two discuss various topics, from the Magic current impressive play, the BIG closing lineup with JI, Cole Anthony’s current struggle, the trade deadline, and much more! You won’t want to miss this one.
Published 02/06/24
In this episode, we discuss the recent updates and rumors surrounding the Orlando Magic, including Paulo Banchero's selection as an NBA All-Star. We also discuss the last four games and highlight the performances of Jonathan Isaac as of late. Lastly, we speculate on the team's potential moves at the trade deadline and the possibility of targeting a point guard in the offseason, and much more.
Published 02/02/24