Central Florida News
Orlando Magic Media Day: New Coach Sean Sweeney Sets Tone for 2026-27 Season
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3 days agoon
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FNN SPORTSPlayoff disappointment fuels urgency as Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner and Orlando’s returning core prepare for a fresh start
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — The Orlando Magic opened preparations for the 2026-27 NBA season with a new head coach and a familiar challenge: turning the potential of their returning core into postseason success.
At Media Day on Sept. 28 at AdventHealth Training Center, players and team leaders emphasized accountability, communication and the urgency created by last season’s first-round playoff exit. Sean Sweeney now leads that effort in his first season as an NBA head coach.
Florida National News was on location, capturing photographs of Magic players and covering the Media Day press conference as the team discussed its preparation and expectations for the upcoming season.
Sweeney’s Approach: Turn Expectations Into Daily Habits
Sweeney’s message focused on teaching, establishing standards and making sure players’ actions reflect those expectations.
For Orlando, the immediate task is translating that approach into consistent execution. Training camp offers the first opportunity to establish responsibilities and develop the habits Sweeney wants to see throughout the season.
Paolo Banchero described offseason conversations and work with Sweeney, including feedback about his development. Wendell Carter Jr. also discussed the coach’s expectations for following instructions and executing assignments.
Detroit Series Leaves Unfinished Business
The Magic’s playoff loss to Detroit provided the backdrop for the team’s renewed urgency. Orlando surrendered a 3-1 series lead, with Franz Wagner missing the final three games because of a strained right calf.
President of basketball operations Jeff Weltman reaffirmed his confidence in the returning core when healthy. Players described the elimination as a difficult ending that shaped their offseason preparation.
“We want that pressure,” Wagner said, according to Spectrum News 13’s Media Day coverage.
Orlando has exited in the first round in three consecutive seasons, making postseason progress a central question entering the new campaign.
Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero participates in the team’s Media Day press conference at AdventHealth Training Center in Orlando, Fla., Monday, Sept. 28, 2026. Photo by Harry Castiblanco / Florida National News.
Banchero Targets Consistency and Conference Success
Banchero identified winning the Eastern Conference as a team objective and said he wants to perform at a high level every night.
The forward entered camp expressing confidence in his physical condition and preparation. His early work with Sweeney also established communication about what the coach expects from him.
Banchero’s stated ambitions raise the stakes for the season. Meeting them will require sustained production and the ability to help Orlando execute when games become more demanding.
Key Takeaways From Media Day
- A new coach is establishing expectations. Sweeney emphasized teaching, accountability and the habits needed to support the team’s standards.
- Orlando is backing its returning core. Weltman expressed confidence in the group’s potential when healthy.
- The playoff loss remains a motivating factor. Players conveyed urgency after surrendering their series lead against Detroit.
- Banchero is setting ambitious goals. His priorities include consistent performance and competing for an Eastern Conference title.
Upcoming Season: Preseason Opens Oct. 7
The Magic begin preseason play Oct. 7 at Memphis, followed by a trip to Cleveland. Orlando then returns home to face the Cavaliers and Miami Heat before opening the regular season against Atlanta on Oct. 21.
| Date | Matchup | Time, Eastern |
|---|---|---|
| Oct. 7 | At Memphis Grizzlies | 8 p.m. |
| Oct. 11 | At Cleveland Cavaliers | 6:30 p.m. |
| Oct. 13 | Cleveland Cavaliers | 7 p.m. |
| Oct. 16 | Miami Heat | 7 p.m. |
| Oct. 21 | Atlanta Hawks — regular-season opener | 7 p.m. |
| Oct. 23 | Minnesota Timberwolves | 7 p.m. |
All times are subject to change, according to the team’s published schedule.
For Orlando, the preseason will provide the first look at how Sweeney’s expectations translate to competition. Media Day established the team’s ambitions. The coming season will test its ability to deliver.
Business
Hola at the Park Set for Oct. 3 in Altamonte Springs; Admission Free
Published
4 hours agoon
October 1, 2026Florida National News and FNN News en Español will provide on-site coverage of the Hispanic Heritage Month celebration at Cranes Roost Park.
ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. (FNN) — Hola at the Park will bring Hispanic culture, local businesses and live entertainment to Cranes Roost Park on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 2 to 6 p.m.
Hosted by the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando and presented by AdventHealth, the event celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month through food, entertainment, entrepreneurship and community connections.
According to the chamber’s event announcement, admission is free, the celebration is open to the community and no registration is required.
FNN to Spotlight Businesses and Community Voices
Florida National News and FNN News en Español, official media sponsors, will be on location covering the festivities.
The FNN team will spotlight chamber representatives, sponsors, participating businesses and community leaders, while sharing attendees’ perspectives throughout the afternoon.
Coverage will highlight the people, businesses and cultural traditions contributing to the celebration.
Food, Entertainment and Family Activities
The chamber’s announcement lists authentic cuisine, live entertainment, local businesses, wellness experiences, community resources, networking and family-friendly activities among the event’s offerings.
Attendees will have opportunities to explore Hispanic traditions, connect with entrepreneurs and learn about organizations serving Central Florida.
A Waterfront Setting in Uptown Altamonte
Cranes Roost Park, located in Uptown Altamonte, features a waterfront setting with scenic walkways around Cranes Roost Lake and the Eddie Rose Amphitheater and floating stage.
The park will serve as the gathering place for an afternoon celebrating Hispanic heritage and the connections between culture, business and community.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026
- Time: 2–6 p.m. EDT
- Location: Cranes Roost Park, Altamonte Springs
- Host: Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando
- Presenting sponsor: AdventHealth
- Admission: Free and open to the community
- Registration: Not required
Vendor Inquiries
For information about vendor opportunities, contact the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando at info@hispanicchamber.com or events@hispanicchamber.com.
Central Florida News
Orlando Magic Announce $20 Tickets, $2–$7 Concessions for Home Games
Published
5 hours agoon
October 1, 2026By
FNN SPORTSNew affordability options include ticket offers, merchandise deals and select concessions at Kia Center.
ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — The Orlando Magic announced new affordability options Wednesday, including $20 ticket offers, select concessions priced from $2 to $7 and merchandise starting at $15, aimed at making home games more accessible to fans.
The initiative includes monthly ticket promotions, community ticket programs, designated concession value menus and retail deals at Kia Center.
“Making Magic games accessible to every fan has always been a priority for our organization, and this season we worked closely with the DeVos family to build on that commitment,” said Charlie Freeman, the Magic’s president of business operations.
$20 Ticket Offers and Community Programs
The Magic’s Monthly Steals Program will offer $20 ticket options for every home game, with offers released on the first of each month.
The team also will offer group ticket options, including complimentary tickets through the Jr. Magic and Honor Roll programs. Discounted tickets will be available to Orange County Public Schools staff and through OneBlood donations.
Fans can find more information at OrlandoMagic.com/MonthlySteals or by calling 407-89-MAGIC.
Concession Value Menu Features Items From $2 to $7
The Fan Favorites Value Menu will be available at Slam Dunk in Section 115 and Flavors of Orlando in Section 218.
Select food and beverage items will cost between $2 and $7. Options include hot dogs, pretzel bites, popcorn, nachos, cookies, chips, bottled water, soda and beer.
“From affordable ticket and concession options to retail merchandise deals, we want to make sure a Magic game remains within reach for families across our community,” Freeman said.
Merchandise Deals Start at $15
The Magic will offer an item of the game at every home game, with merchandise starting at $15.
Weekly deals at the Magic Authentics team shop at Kia Center also will feature a $15 hat or T-shirt. The team’s Eighty9 Collection, an affordable private-label merchandise line, will be available in the shop at each game.
SunRail Partnership Supports Game-Day Transportation
The Magic said they will continue working with SunRail to ensure trains operate after weeknight home games, allowing fans to ride free with a game ticket.
According to the announcement, SunRail serves 17 stations across Central Florida, including locations in DeLand and DeBary, and provides access near Kia Center.
Keeping Games Within Reach for Fans
Freeman said the affordability initiative reflects the ownership group’s commitment to maintaining access as the team grows.
“The DeVos family ownership has been clear that growth on the court should go hand-in-hand with keeping this experience affordable for the fans who support us every night,” he said.
Central Florida News
Buccaneers’ Todd Bowles Backs Jalon Daniels Ahead of First NFL Start Against Packers
Published
14 hours agoon
October 1, 2026By
FNN SPORTSTAMPA, Fla. (FNN SPORTS) — Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles expressed confidence in quarterback Jalon Daniels after Wednesday’s practice, emphasizing preparation, improved pass protection and accountability as the team seeks its first victory of the season against the Green Bay Packers.
Daniels is preparing for his first NFL start, with Tampa Bay trying to avoid an 0-4 start. Bowles said the quarterback’s responsibility is to execute the offense while his teammates and coaches fulfill their own assignments.
“For us, it’s just trying to get a win,” Bowles said. “Everybody has to do their job.”
Daniels’ preparation and decision-making take priority
Bowles said film study and mental preparation will be central to Daniels’ readiness. He encouraged the quarterback to trust his experience and avoid trying to do too much.
The coaching staff is evaluating which elements of the game plan Daniels handles most comfortably. Bowles said veteran quarterback Baker Mayfield’s experience allows him to manage more checks, audibles and offensive adjustments.
“We’ve just got to make sure Jalon is comfortable with the things we give him,” Bowles said.
Although Daniels can extend plays outside the pocket, Bowles said his intelligence and pocket performance earned him a place on the roster.
“His intelligence and his pocket play is what got him on the team,” he said.
Bowles also dismissed the suggestion that entering the season with Daniels as the backup quarterback was a risk.
“He earned it, and he beat [the others] out fair and square,” Bowles said.
Pass protection needs improvement
Bowles said correcting pass protection requires contributions from both the offensive line and running backs. He identified communication, fundamentals and footwork as areas needing attention.
“The communication has got to be better,” he said.
Bowles confirmed that the team has adjusted aspects of its practice routine but declined to explain the changes.
He also said the coaching staff has discussed increasing running back Sean Tucker’s involvement.
“He definitely needs to run the ball a little bit more,” Bowles said.
Diaby, Bain among injury concerns
Bowles expressed optimism about outside linebacker Yaya Diaby, who is dealing with a calf injury, while saying outside linebacker Rueben Bain Jr.’s status remains uncertain.
“Yaya, we think, will be okay,” Bowles said. “Rueben, we’re still trying to decide, and we’ll see at the end of the week where he is.”
Bowles said Bain’s shoulder remains a concern.
Defensive lineman Rakeem Nuñez-Roches sustained a foot injury during stretching before putting on his uniform, according to Bowles.
Linebacker Josiah Trotter participated fully in Wednesday’s practice. Bowles said he would have a better assessment after Thursday’s practice in shoulder pads.
Packers present an explosive offensive challenge
Bowles praised Green Bay quarterback Jordan Love’s accuracy and command of the offense. He also highlighted tight end Tucker Kraft and the speed of receivers Christian Watson and Matthew Golden.
“Then, [Love] puts the ball on a dime,” Bowles said. “He knows how to get rid of it, and he understands the offense very well.”
Potential changes along Green Bay’s offensive line will require adjustments, Bowles said, but Tampa Bay’s defenders must remain focused on their assignments and technique.
Defense shows progress
Bowles said Tampa Bay’s defense performed significantly better against Minnesota than it did during the first two weeks.
He praised defensive lineman A’Shawn Robinson’s leadership, energy and tenacity, and said linebacker Alex Anzalone played well against the Vikings.
Outside linebacker David Walker has earned additional defensive snaps, Bowles said. The coaching staff also is working to expand safety Antoine Winfield Jr.’s role.
“We haven’t put in everything to access all his talents, and we’re working on that right now,” Bowles said.
Veteran leadership essential to a turnaround
Bowles described Sunday’s game as critical and said overcoming a difficult start requires mental toughness, veteran leadership and unity.
“You have some veterans that step up, and you stay the course and you stay together and you don’t point fingers,” he said. “Those are the teams that come out of it.”
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