Slimmer, sharper, and more vocal, the former rookie is weaponizing his floor-spacing and defensive versatility to anchor Orlando’s young core through a high-stakes Summer League campaign.
Orlando Magic forward Noah Penda is embracing a larger leadership role during his second Summer League with the organization, this time entering with higher expectations as he looks to make a significant leap in his second NBA season.
After gaining valuable experience during his rookie year, Penda has returned more confident and comfortable, using Summer League as another opportunity to continue developing his game while helping lead Orlando's young roster.
During a recent media availability, Penda discussed where he believes he has improved the most since last season and how that growth has prepared him for a bigger role heading into the 2026-27 campaign.
On how helpful the Summer League experience has been:
"Honestly, great. It's a good way to get to know the expectations from the coaches for next season. Like I said at the beginning of Summer League, it's a good way to see the improvements and the results of the work that you've been putting in during the summer. I worked a lot during the summer, and I think the results were there. So it's encouraging, and it just keeps pushing you for the rest of the summer."
On where he has improved the most since last season ended:
"Shot-making, obviously, and being able to space the floor for my teammates. I know that was a big emphasis last year, so being able to space the floor was a big improvement that I had to make during the summer. After that, just trimming down, working a lot on my body, and getting my rhythm down."
On Coach Sweeney's expectations for his upcoming sophomore season:
"Obviously, defensive versatility. Defense is always going to be the first thing that pops up when you think about Noah Penda. After that, as a second-year player, you just want to make the right play. All the things that are categorized as rookie mistakes, you want to erase those and show growth and poise during games."
On teammate Jase’s development and leadership:
"Honestly, it's great. Last year, we were in the gym together every time, so I know he's a hard worker. I know it was important for him to show that he had that leadership as a point guard for us next year, and I think he's shown that. Obviously, the shot-making was never a question for him. I'm glad to see him keep going in that direction. He's a great man, a great teammate, and a great point guard. He's been a great leader since camp started until now. Even when we're on the sideline, he's still that voice in the team, and that's great."
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