When the Magic snagged Desmond Bane from the Grizzlies last summer, it was a move that resonated with Horace Grant. He saw echoes of his own journey to Orlando back in the '90s, bringing a sense of déjà vu to the franchise's current ambitions.
Grant, a key figure in the Bulls' championship dynasty before joining the Magic in 1994, praised Bane as a “fantastic” acquisition. With Orlando eyeing a third straight playoff appearance, Bane’s playoff pedigree is invaluable to this youthful squad.
“His experience in the playoffs is gold for a young team,” Grant shared in a recent interview. “He’s a solid leader.”
Grant, who played pivotal roles for the Magic from 1994-99 and again from 2001-03, was instrumental in their first NBA Finals appearance in '95. Although he hasn't been courtside in Orlando for over a decade, his support for the team remains unwavering.
“They’ve battled injuries, but they’re on track for something special, if not this year, then next,” Grant added.
These days, Grant is stepping back into the spotlight with his new TV series, “Legends in Session with Horace Grant.” The 13-episode debut season is set to launch this year, airing on cable in Chicago and streaming on platforms like Roku and Apple TV.
Initially hesitant about the show, Grant was eventually convinced, leading him to interview old friends, rivals, and colleagues from his storied career.
“It’s about honoring legends and uncovering stories people haven’t heard,” Grant explained.
The lineup for his show includes basketball icons like Phil Jackson, Charles Oakley, and Patrick Ewing, as well as sports stars from other arenas like NFL champ Vernon Davis and World Series winner Jose Rijo.
Grant’s reputation and character from his 17-year NBA career promise deep, insightful conversations with his guests.
“We’re here to celebrate, not criticize,” he said. “It’s about audiences connecting with my guests and their journeys.”
Bane isn’t the sole reason for Grant’s optimism about the Magic. He’s also impressed with Paolo Banchero, who’s been lighting it up with 25 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game since the All-Star break.
“Fans need to remember he’s still young,” Grant noted about Banchero, who turned 23 last November. “With his skills, I’d tell Magic fans to be patient.”
As the Magic gear up for a road trip to Dallas, playing four of their last six regular-season games away, Grant sees a bright future reminiscent of his own days in a Magic uniform.
“I’m a huge NBA fan, especially of the teams I played for. Watching the Magic now, they’re close to something big,” Grant said. “They have a young squad, and they just need to trust in each other.”