1995-96 Orlando Magic: A Season of Dominance
A Star-Studded Roster
The 1995-96 season marked a golden era for the Orlando Magic. The team boasted an all-star roster that included the likes of:
- Shaquille O'Neal: The reigning NBA MVP, renowned for his unstoppable dominance in the paint.
- Anfernee Hardaway: A versatile guard known for his electrifying playmaking and explosive dunks.
- Dennis Scott: A sharpshooter with a deadly three-point shot.
- Horace Grant: A veteran forward known for his rugged defense and clutch play.
- Terrell Brandon: A speedy guard who provided additional scoring punch.
A Dominant Regular Season
The Magic dominated the regular season, finishing with a league-best 60-22 record. O'Neal averaged 26.4 points and 12.5 rebounds per game, while Hardaway contributed 21.7 points and 7.6 assists per game. Scott was a consistent three-point threat, averaging 3.9 shots made per game from beyond the arc.
The Magic's stifling defense was a major reason for their success. Grant and Brandon were defensive stalwarts, while O'Neal's presence in the paint made it nearly impossible for opponents to score in the post.
The Magic cruised through the first round of the playoffs, sweeping the Cleveland Cavaliers 3-0. However, they faced a tough challenge in the second round against the Atlanta Hawks, who were led by the talented young guard Steve Smith.
The series went down to a thrilling Game 7, with the Magic eventually emerging victorious. They then faced the Chicago Bulls in the Eastern Conference Finals, a team led by the legendary Michael Jordan. Despite a valiant effort, the Magic were swept in 4 games by the eventual NBA champions.
The 1995-96 season was a memorable one for the Orlando Magic. The team's star-studded roster and dominant regular season performance made them one of the most formidable forces in the NBA. While their playoff run ultimately fell short of a championship, the season showcased the potential of this young and talented team.
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