ORLANDO -- The Los Angeles Lakers have won their 15th championship, ending the Orlando Magic’s bid for their first NBA title with a 99–86 win Sunday in Game 5 of the Finals.
The Magic began the game with a big run in the first quarter, but the Lakers exploded in the second and never looked back.
Kobe Bryant scored 30 points and was named the series MVP as he captured his fourth championship ring, and his first without Shaquille O’Neal.
Los Angeles coach Phil Jackson won his 10th championship, passing Boston’s Red Auerbach for the all-time lead.
The Lakers’ defense forced the Magic to shoot just 41.5 percent from the field.
Rashard Lewis led the Magic with 18 points. Dwight Howard scored 11, and had 10 rebounds.
Fans Thankful For Magic Season
Magic fans were understandably upset by the loss, but many of the thousands who packed downtown Orlando Sunday reflected on the season in a positive light.
A crowd of fans stuck around a little longer after the game to celebrate the Magic’s first appearance in the NBA Finals in 14 years.
“I’m proud of what they accomplished,” said one optimistic fan. “Everybody thought we would get swept, but that didn’t happen. Go Magic!”
“I’m proud that they made it this far and we weren’t swept,” another fan told News 13. “I’m proud.”
The Magic even picked up plenty of new fans this season, with many now looking forward to next year.
Gina’s Golden Voice
Sunday also marked the last time 7-year-old Gina Incandella sang the national anthem at Amway Arena this season.
“I’m really happy. I wish I could sing again,” said Gina, who was born autistic and had not spoken a word until she was 3, when her parents discovered her amazing singing voice.
Gina’s nine performances for the Magic -- the first seven of which were followed by crucial victories for the home team -- has gained her international attention in the Finals.
Along the way, all the media attention has also greatly helped the Kissimmee first-grader with her autism.
“We say life is just one big therapy session for all of us, but singing and the performing has helped Gina socially,” said Gina’s mother, Michelle Incandella.
Orlando Economy Still Wins
Win or lose, one thing was certain after the Finals: Orlando Magic fans spent lots of money.
From hats to T-shirts, everyone wanted to get their hands on something to support the Magic, and all the vendors News 13 spoke with said sales were definitely positive.
The Magic’s appearance in the Finals gave Orlando’s economy a much-needed boost.
Ekta Adwani, a retailer for the Magic, said some items were selling so fast, they could not keep them on the shelves for long.
Adwani said online sales have also increased.
Magic season tickets for next year are already selling fans, with over 11,000 already sold.
News 13’s Magic Spirit
News 13 and Bright House Network thank you for being a part of our Magic coverage online.
Comment On This Story