Francis Settling into New Franchise

Steve Francis was initially very public about being very hurt that Rocket management was attempting to trade him to the Orlando Magic for Tracy McGrady. Francis was optimistic about the future of Houston basketball with he and Yao Ming as nucleus.

Now that some time has passed since the trade, Francis is settling into his future with the Magic.

"I've learned a lot," he said. "So many guys were traded. I've never seen this much action in the NBA in my life as far as so many different moves being made.

"I have no hard feelings toward the NBA. I'm pretty sure anybody will tell you, it's a business. The Rockets traded away their best player in team history, Hakeem Olajuwon. I'm no different."

Francis' first return to Houston will be on January 24th.

Via Houston Chronicle

Orlando Magic, Houston Rockets

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Suns sign Hunter

The Suns signed free agent Steven Hunter today.

“Steven Hunter’s athleticism, shot blocking and rebounding ability give us an added dimension to address the need in the middle,” said Suns President and General Manager Bryan Colangelo.

Hunter averaged 3.2 points per game and 2.9 rebounds per game last season for the Magic.

'Hunter, 22, was acquired by the Cleveland Cavaliers on July 23, 2004 from the Magic along with Drew Gooden and the draft rights to Anderson Varejao for Tony Battie and two future second-round picks. Cleveland later waived him on August 10.'

'Originally selected in the first round (15th overall) of the 2001 NBA Draft by Orlando, Hunter played two seasons at DePaul University, including the 1999-00 campaign with fellow Suns guard Quentin Richardson. The early entry candidate finished third in school history in blocked shots (128) and field goal percentage (.586).'

Via NBA.com

Phoenix Suns, Orlando Magic, Cleveland Cavaliers

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Magic Assistance

Magic owner Rich DeVos, wife Helen and the Orlando Magic did not make a big public display of it but they did contribute $1 million to the Hurricane Charley Relief Fund.

As the sports world disappoints us, this story lifts us up.

"What a tremendous thing the Magic and the DeVos family have done for this community," says Joel Hass, the head of the American Red Cross of Central Florida. "We're hurting right now, and Rich DeVos is doing what he can to help. The man has a huge heart."

The Magic are also arranging for 80,000 pounds of ice to be hauled in from Detroit.

"We are concerned for a community which has been good to us," DeVos said. "We want to be there in this time of need. Our hearts and prayers go out to the people whose lives have been turned upside down by the disaster."

Via Orlando Sentinel

Orlando Magic

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