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BREAKING: Magic Takes Anthony Black; Starter Next Season?

The Orlando Magic is starting off draft night by taking Anthony Black from Arkansas.

ORLANDO - The Orlando Magic draft class is starting off with a bang.

With the No. 6 pick, the Magic is selecting Anthony Black from Arkansas.

"With elite size for a guard, Black has the perfect build for the modern NBA," SI writes. "He’s a natural lead guard that can also play off ball on the wing. He’s the ideal prospect for the positionless game that the NBA is trending towards. Black is a player that relies more on skill than athleticism."

In 36 games during his freshman season, Black averaged 12.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 2.1 steals in just under 35 minutes per game.

The Duncanville, Tx. native’s 6-7 frame brings size to the backcourt, which helps Black leave his stamp on the defensive end. Black’s height and athleticism give him the ability to guard multiple positions, as his activity and hands are some of the best in the class.

Offensively, Black showcases a high basketball IQ as an unselfish playmaker. His size for a lead guard gives him an advantage to see above smaller defenders with swift floor vision.

Black isn’t necessarily a natural scorer or knockdown shooter as he’s a true pass-first guard, but has the tools to continue improvement in both areas. 

The Magic is back on the clock with the No. 11 pick.


You can follow Jeremy Brener on Twitter @JeremyBrener.

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