Photo of Lukhanyo Gqokoma

Paolo Banchero signs five-year extension with Orlando Magic

Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero has agreed to a five-year maximum rookie contract extension worth $239 million with the NBA club, according to multiple reports on Monday.

The 22-year-old American, taken with the first pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, could make up to $287 million in the deal.

Banchero suffered a torn oblique and missed two months of the 2024-25 NBA campaign but still produced career-high averages of 25.9 points and 7.5 rebounds as well as 4.6 assists.

Banchero could boost his salary by being named NBA Most Valuable Player or Defensive Player of the Year next season, or being named to an All-NBA or All-Defensive lineup.

Banchero would also have a player option for the 2030-31 season, according to the reports.

The Magic will have their core of talent — Banchero, Franz Wagner and Jalen Suggs — under contract for the next five seasons.

Orlando also has guard Desmond Bane, obtained in a trade with Memphis last month, signed through the 2028-29 campaign.

Banchero, the 2023 NBA Rookie of the Year, has averaged 22.4 points, 7.1 rebounds and 4.6 assists a game over three seasons with the Magic.

© Agence France-Presse

Photo: Todd Kirkland/Getty Images

Renate Stuurman celebrates ‘Shockwave’ opening night: ‘My heart is full’

South African actress Renate Stuurman is celebrating the opening night of Shockwave, sharing her excitement as the stage production makes its debut at Johannesburg’s Market Theatre. Also see: Renate and Vuyo have allegedly broken up Taking to social media, Renate expressed her gratitude and joy at being part of the production, which is written by […]

Read more...

Thobile ‘MaKhumalo’ Mseleku celebrates hair transplant results: ‘Couldn’t be happier’

Reality television star and businesswoman Thobile ‘MaKhumalo’ Mseleku is celebrating a year since undergoing a hair transplant, sharing an update on her results and expressing happiness with her hair growth journey. Also see: Internet reacts to Thobile Mseleku’s hair transplant glow-up Taking to social media, MaKhumalo reflected on the transformation, highlighting the patience and trust […]

Read more...

Fannie Masemola outlines next steps after return: ‘I’m not here for revenge’

South African Police Service (SAPS) National Commissioner Fannie Masemola has vowed to prioritise unity, accountability and crime-fighting over internal divisions as he returned to office on Monday, following the withdrawal of criminal charges that led to his six-month precautionary suspension. Also see: President Ramaphosa’s decision on Fannie Masemola draws attention to police oversight Fannie Masemola addresses […]

Read more...