NBA: Franz Wagner makes noteworthy return as Magic outlast Bucks

Franz Wagner returned from a nine-game absence to score 14 points in 17 minutes and spark a key third-quarter run as the Orlando Magic defeated the visiting Milwaukee Bucks 118-99 on Monday.

Anthony Black led Orlando with 26 points on 8-of-13 shooting, while Desmond Bane added 25 as the Magic extended their winning streak to three games, matching their best run of the season.

The Bucks’ three-game winning streak, their longest of the season, came to an end. Milwaukee, still without star Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf), got a game-high 28 points from Kevin Porter Jr., who also contributed seven assists. AJ Green added 15 points, hitting 4 of 8 from three-point range.

The teams will meet again in Orlando on Wednesday.

After entering the game with 4:11 left in the first quarter, Franz Wagner became a catalyst in the third. Orlando trailed 73-70 before Franz assisted Moritz Wagner on a 3-pointer. Jase Richardson followed with a trey, giving the Magic a nine-point lead. Franz Wagner then fed Moritz again for another three, scored on a drive, and capped the quarter with a long three to make it 87-72. Orlando outscored Milwaukee 36-20 in the period, taking control of the game.

The first quarter was sloppy for both teams, with Milwaukee committing five turnovers in the first five minutes. The score was tied at 13 with 3:30 remaining, but Orlando finished the quarter strong with a reverse layup by Franz Wagner and a dunk by Moritz Wagner, taking a 27-22 lead after a Porter three at the buzzer.

The Bucks improved in the second quarter, with Bobby Portis Jr. hitting consecutive baskets to tie it at 31. Milwaukee briefly led 54-51 at halftime after a 7-0 run capped by a Jericho Sims layup.

Cam Thomas made his Bucks debut after being released by the Brooklyn Nets, scoring four points in 13 minutes.

-Field Level Media/Reuters