The Orlando Magic appear to be back on track after a sluggish start to the season, with Desmond Bane setting the tone as the team’s on-court leader. While his performances have helped stabilize the Magic, Bane found himself in the spotlight last week for reasons unrelated to his scoring or playmaking.
During Orlando’s matchup against the New York Knicks, Bane was whistled for a controversial foul on OG Anunoby that officials deemed a “hostile act.” The incident quickly drew attention around the league and ultimately resulted in a fine for Bane, but the 27-year-old is showing no remorse.
Desmond Bane Addresses Controversial Foul On OG Anunoby
The Magic fell to the Knicks on Sunday, December 7, 106–100, in a game that later became overshadowed by a controversial fourth-quarter incident involving Bane and Anunoby.
The play occurred just over six minutes into the final quarter with Orlando trailing 91–80. After the Knicks intercepted a pass from guard Jalen Suggs, they pushed the ball in transition, with Anunoby leading the fast break.
Magic rookie Anthony Black hustled back on defense and managed to disrupt Anunoby’s shot attempt, stripping the ball as Anunoby went up and sending him crashing into the stanchion. As the loose ball rolled free, Bane collected it and, in an attempt to prevent a Knicks recovery, flung the ball toward the downed Anunoby.
That action sparked an immediate response. Anunoby jumped to his feet and shoved Bane in the chest, leading to a brief altercation before officials stepped in to separate the two. After review, referees ruled Bane’s action a hostile act, issuing a technical foul. The league later fined Bane $35,000 on Monday.
Despite the punishment, Bane showed little remorse when speaking ahead of Orlando’s NBA Cup semifinal matchup against New York, insisting the play was not malicious.
“I thought it was a good play…I threw it too hard…chasing down the ball, throw it off him,” Bane said. “My homeboy said the Reds gonna be giving me a call — if y’all watching, invite me to spring training — but yeah, there was no foul play intended,” Bane said.
Notably, tensions appeared to cool quickly after the incident. Once order was restored, Bane and Anunoby were seen talking amicably on the court, with Bane seemingly explaining his intent. Anunoby even cracked a smile during the exchange and showed no lingering frustration following the game.
Bane finished with 16 points in Sunday’s loss before erupting for 37 points against the Miami Heat in the NBA Cup quarterfinals. In his first season with Orlando after spending the early part of his career with the Memphis Grizzlies, the 27-year-old is averaging 19 points, 4.5 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game.
Bane and the Magic will face the Knicks again on Saturday evening at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
