Orlando Magic Acquires Noah Penda With No. 32 NBA Draft Pick

The Orlando Magic made a strategic move in the 2025 NBA Draft by trading multiple second-round picks to the Boston Celtics to acquire the 32nd pick, which they used to select French forward Noah Penda. Penda, a versatile 6'7" player with a seven-foot wingspan, impressed scouts and executives with his defense, ball-handling, passing, and high basketball IQ during his time in France's top-tier league and his standout performance in the FIBA U20 EuroBasket 2024. He earned several accolades including the Best Young Player award and contributed significantly to Le Mans Sarthe's playoff run and cup victories. Magic president Jeff Weltman emphasized Penda's unique skill set, versatility, and character, noting that he has the 'Magic DNA' and can impact multiple positions on the court. Penda expressed excitement about joining Orlando, inspired by the franchise's legacy and ready to work hard. His defensive prowess, size, and all-around game fit the Magic's draft priorities, aiming to bolster the team's competitiveness.