Orlando-based photographer Fabio Galizia (Instagram) was courtside to capture the action as the Orlando Magic squared off against the Denver Nuggets—a game laced with deep connections between the two teams.
The spotlight naturally fell on Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Orlando’s blockbuster offseason acquisition. Known for his veteran poise and championship pedigree, KCP brings the Magic a wealth of experience, including two NBA titles: his first in 2020 with the Lakers during the unforgettable “Bubble Season” and his second with the Nuggets in 2023. Now facing his former team, Caldwell-Pope reflected on the unique dynamic.
“Just, you know, trying to go out there and compete and not try to like – don’t worry about the interaction that we had or whatnot. Just going out and competing. Trying to get the win by any means. At the end of the day, just out there joking when there’s timeouts or like dead balls. Just having a little fun with it.”
Adding to the narrative, the game also marked the return of former Magic forward Aaron Gordon. Drafted fourth overall in 2014, Gordon spent seven seasons thrilling Orlando fans with his high-flying dunks before finding a championship groove with the Nuggets.
Despite the excitement surrounding these reunions, the Magic’s struggles with injuries and continuity continued. Even with Paolo Banchero back in the lineup, Orlando was without key contributors, including Jalen Suggs, Goga Bitadze, Jett Howard, and the Wagner brothers. The shorthanded Magic couldn’t keep pace, dropping their third straight game, 113-100.
For this series, Galizia takes photos with his film camera first, developing the photos old-school before scanning them for us to share on Bungalower.com.
