The Magic defeated the Nets in the other semi-final game to advance to the finals against the Bulls.
The Bulls and the Magic had very similar records this year. The Bulls are 10-1 with an average margin of victory of twelve points. The Magic are 10-2 with an average margin of victory of nine points. Both teams defeated each league opponent at least once.
The two head-to-head games could not have been closer.
In the first matchup, the Bulls were playing shorthanded, with only six players present. Despite being shorthanded, they built a fourth quarter lead that started to disappear after point guard Will Howes fouled out. The Magic tied the game with a three point buzzer beater. In overtime, Will Magic Kenny fouled out. The Bulls struggled, and lost the game by three points.
The re-match was a mirror image of the first game. The Magic held a late four point lead, with 1:20 left in the game. The Bulls narrowed the lead to three points and brought the ball upcourt with under twenty seconds left. With 10.5 seconds left on the clock, Sawyer Kilgore made a picture perfect pass to Will Howes who was all alone beyond the arc. Will shot the ball in rhythm. Bottom! The game was tied. Will Howes stole the ensuing inbounds pass, drove to the hoop where he was fouled. He sank the first free throw to win the game.
The winner of the game will win the tournament championship trophy. The Bulls already have one trophy in hand for finishing first in the league during the regular season.
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