New logo, new uniforms, same dream. | Photo via Orlando Magic
Since their inception, the Orlando Magic are yet to realize their true wizardry. Runners-up medals in 1995 and 2009 are the closest the team has come to NBA glory.
Ahead of the 2025-2026 NBA season, there are plenty of reasons for optimism. Here are five of them:
1. Recent success
The Magic have made the playoffs the past two seasons, winning the NBA’s Southeast Division each year. While both playoff appearances ended in the first round, that experience will only benefit this young team moving forward.
Fun fact: The last time the Magic made back-to-back playoffs, the following year saw them make a run all the way to the NBA Finals in 2009. That series was dominated by the late, great Kobe Bryant as the Lakers came out on top.
2. Paolo Banchero
The 2022 ACC Rookie of the Year is going from strength to strength, averaging ~26 points per game last year. It’s no surprise he’s among the names penned for NBA MVP.
đź“ŤFind your Florida lifestyle: 19 new home communities around ORL
Presented by Stanley Martin Homes
Photos courtesy Stanley Martin Homes
Searching for that perfect O-Town abode? A stylish space that checks all your location + living boxes?
Enter: 19 new-build communities tucked throughout the Orlando area, each offering unique home designs, perks, and amenities.
🏡 Built for local living
Designed and built by Stanley Martin Homes, homeowners can choose from a wide variety of flexible floor plans ranging from 3-5 bedrooms and 1,400-2,800 sq ft of warm living spaces.
Townhomes, perfect for first-time buyers, start in the mid-$200s, while single-family homes range from the mid-$200s to $500+.
🌴 Beyond the backyard
A few steps from your front door, community amenities like resort-style pools, cabanas, playgrounds, and green spaces bring the Florida lifestyle right to you.
Plus, 19 locations to choose from means that staying close to schools, entertainment, nightlife, and even the beach is easier than ever.
The oft-viral PopUp Bagels is coming to Maitland. It will be the business’ first Central Florida location, where it will serve its award-winning bagels and range of cream cheese flavors. Get this: The cream cheese isn’t for spreading, but instead it’s for dipping — the store serves its bagels unsliced. (Orlando Weekly)
Community
Gabrielle has officially formed into a named storm system in the Atlantic Ocean. A reminder: We are still in the height of hurricane season, so it’s important to remain vigilant. The best time to prepare is now.
Edu
The University of Central Florida is in the top of its class. Niche released its “2026 Best Colleges in America” list, and when looking at public universities in Florida, the local school ranked No. 5. Just check UCF’s report card — overall, it earned an A average based on the publication’s methodology.
Opening
Chicago-based Fat Rosie’s is opening its first Florida location in Waterford Lakes Town Center early next year. It will be the Mexican restaurant chain’s first venture outside of Illinois, where its clientele enjoys whimsical decor, upbeat vibes, and classic eats + drinks. We’ve got our eyes on the brunch offerings and specialty margs. (Orlando Business Journal)
Environment
Way to go, Orlando. Volunteers removed 228 lbs of litter from Lake Ivanhoe during a recent Keep Orlando Beautiful event. Kayakers found 47 lbs in the water, while those on foot found 181 around the water’s edge. Find a KOB event for yourself to do your part in keeping The City Beautiful a beautiful place to be.
Traffic
The Central Florida Expressway Authority is still deciding on the proposed $2.5 billion Southport Connector expressway plans in the increasingly populated Osceola County. “The project will address ongoing growth in population and employment within the region,” said Mary Brooks, public involvement coordinator for CFX. (Orlando Sentinel)
Number
44,400. That’s the estimated number of farms in Florida, according to a new study by Visual Capitalist. Support local growers and eat farm-to-table by shopping at the Orlando Farmers’ Market this weekend.
The Word
Pumpkin spice. You know it, you love it, and according to Google, this seasonal blend is being searched more now than ever before. Whether you’re looking for a classic PSL or something more unique, get your autumnal beverage fix at these Orlando coffee shops.
Read
Arthur Sze has been appointed the 25th US poet laureate by the Library of Congress. He will start in the fall, which is also the perfect time of year to read a poetry collection, classic novel, or romantasy tale in O-Town’s great outdoors. (The Guardian)
Posting on ORLtoday’s local job board is like using GPS for hiring. It gets you to the right talent without the scenic detours. Ready to find your dream candidate? Post your job today. It’s 100% free.
The second-annual Orlando Mural Festival is into its second day today, with talented local muralists transforming downtown buildings into masterpieces. Live music and a panel discussion are also on the agenda. Tickets are free, but you’ll need to reserve one to secure your sport.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
It’s the final weekend of summer, with fall officially kicking off on Monday, Sept. 22.
Before we know it, we’ll be seeing tinsel around palm trees and sunsets before 6 p.m. What holiday content would you like us to write about? Drop us a line so we can make the season even more wonderful for you.
