Jalen Suggs’ regrets after heartbreaking NBA Cup loss to Bucks

The Orlando Magic’s first edition of the NBA Cup ended Tuesday night with a 114-109 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks in the quarterfinals. The loss dropped Orlando’s season record to 17-10 and highlighted the challenges of competing without star players Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, both injured.

Jalen Suggs, who became leader in their absence, produced a remarkable performance with 32 points, nine rebounds, four steals and an assist. Despite his efforts, Suggs expressed disappointment with the team’s narrow loss and reflected on the missed opportunities late in the game.

“We fought, we played hard, we withstood runs, withstood adversity, and for that I’m proud of every man up and down the roster,” Suggs said. “Everyone did everything tonight to give themselves a chance to win. It hurts to know that. To have this opportunity, knowing that everyone did everything they could. They fought despite wounds, wounds, fatigue. All we needed was a bucket.

Jalen Suggs reflects on Magic’s missed opportunities as Bucks stars shine in NBA Cup

Suggs missed two crucial shots in the final moments – one that could have given the Magic the lead and another that would have tied the game. He spoke frankly about his difficulties in these critical moments.

“Excellent game, superb draw from Mose. He found me, again, another opportunity to keep us in the game,” Suggs said. “I missed two. You know, everyone was looking at me and prepared something for me to go get one. And it really hurts to be honest. Good night, bad night, whatever it is – you know, I like to win and I don’t like to let my brothers down.

The Bucks were led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, who had a dominant performance with 37 points, seven rebounds, four blocks and two steals. Meanwhile, Damian Lillard added 28 points and nine assists, complementing Antetokounmpo’s impact with a performance of his own. Their combined efforts helped Milwaukee defeat a determined Magic team in a game marked by resiliency on both sides.

The loss marked an important moment for the Magic, who have shown growth this season despite injuries to key players. Anthony Black, coming off the bench, contributed 17 points, six rebounds, three assists, three steals and a block. He highlighted the team’s depth and potential on the national stage during the TNT broadcast.

“We feel like we have some of the best talent in the league. Some of the deepest,” Black said after the game. “I always play in front of some eyes – that way our guys get the credit they deserve. Yes, of course, we would have wanted to win.

Jamahl Mosley praises team’s resilience and growth in tough loss

After the close loss, head coach Jamahl Mosley praised his team’s effort and resilience against a formidable opponent led by Hall of Fame caliber players in Antetokounmpo and Lillard.

“I want them to understand what they just did in one category of effort — going up against two Hall of Famers and a very experienced basketball team,” Mosley said. “Now we’re not going to make excuses for having bodies, not having bodies, but you go against a team like that and realize how hard it is to overcome our own mental mistakes.”

Additionally, Mosley stressed the importance of mental focus and attention to detail in close games, calling them an opportunity for growth for the young Magic team.

“That’s where possessions matter, mental focus matters in these games,” Mosley added. “But I couldn’t be more proud of their effort, their energy, they stay together throughout the game, which shows the continued growth of this team and understanding how good we can continue to be.”

After their run in the NBA Cup, the Orlando Magic turn their attention to the regular season. They open a six-game homestand Friday against the Western Conference-leading Oklahoma City Thunder (19-5). This game provides another opportunity for Orlando to solidify its position in the Eastern Conference standings and continue to build on the growth shown during its NBA Cup campaign.