NBA ROUNDUP
Magic's losing streak finally finished at 19
By Associated Press, 12/9/2003
ORLANDO, Fla. -- The Orlando Magic dodged becoming only the fifth team in NBA history to lose 20 straight games, beating the Phoenix Suns, 105-98, last night.
The Magic had to climb out of a 22-point hole in the first quarter to win for the first since Oct. 29, an overtime victory in the opener at New York. It was the third-biggest comeback in team history, and the largest deficit the Magic have overcome at home.
Drew Gooden scored 15 of his 21 points in the first half, and Tracy McGrady had 16 points, 11 rebounds, and 9 assists.
The Magic closed the game on a 10-2 run, with Gordan Giricek hitting a 3-pointer and two free throws.
Giricek had 19 points, as did Juwan Howard. Howard's layup broke a 95-95 tie and started the Magic to their first home win since April 12.
© Copyright 2003 Globe Newspaper Company.