ORLANDO, FL – Orlando Magic point guard is back, and ready to grow. As the Magic start their 2020-21 training camp today, Fultz spoke with the press via Zoom, and he had plenty to say.
“Last year was about making it through a full season, and I did that. Now I’m excited to get back into the gym and get to work.”
Fultz said that his break after the Magic’s 2019-20 playoff series was great.
“I’m actually happy getting back into the gym. Everyday i’be coming in and getting better, not just on the floor but in the weight room. I’m getting stronger.”
He’s had to prove himself throughout his NBA journey.
As the first pick in the 2017 draft with the Philadelphia 76ers, he had to prove that he belonged. He played only 33 games for the Sixers, and faced nationwide scrutiny as his scoring and jump shooting seemed to disappear.
Markelle was diagnosed with Thoracic Outlet Syndrome in his right shoulder and arm and had not yet played in a single game for the Orlando Magic after the team acquired him from the Philadelphia 76ers at the trade deadline during the 2018-19 season.
The Magic didn’t initially push Fultz to play. They focused on intense rehab for Markelle, with vigorous training and worked to rebuild is game.
Now the tables have turned.
in the 2019-20 Season, Fultz had a coming out party. The 6-foot-4, 209-pound guard slashed through opposing defenses, dishing amazing passes to stunned Magic players and getting to the rim almost at will.
According to Fultz, last year was to prove a point. He tried and played for a full NBA season, and caused havoc on NBA defenses, surpassing those who doubted his ability to play in this league.
“I actually like being doubted, I like people thinking that I can’t do something,” Fultz said. “I just love proving people wrong. … My destiny is as far as I want to take it.”
Fultz is looking forward to working with new Magic players Cole Anthony and Dwayne Bacon, as well as the debut of Magic 2019 first round draft Chuma Okeke.
“Chuma is my dude. We’ve been talking. We have a bond because we were both recovering from injuries. I look forward to playing with him.”
Orlando starts its 2020-21 pre-season on December 11th with two games in Atlanta against the Hawks, then two games at home against the Charlotte Hornets.
The NBA Season begins for the Magic at home against the Miami Heat.
