CJ McCollum’s 4th-Quarter Impact Lifts Wizards to 120–112 Win Over Magic | SportInsiderly

The Washington Wizards may still be officially labeled as a rebuilding team, but nights like Tuesday prove that something special is quietly taking shape in the nation’s capital. Led by a calm, veteran performance from CJ McCollum, the Wizards survived a tense late scare and secured a 120–112 win over the Orlando Magic, reminding fans and critics alike that this young group is learning how to close games.

For Washington supporters who sat through a rough 3–20 start to the season, this victory felt different. It wasn’t just about the final score—it was about composure, leadership, and growth.

And at the center of it all stood McCollum.

CJ McCollum Delivers When It Matters Most

Veteran guard CJ McCollum finished the night with 27 points, but his most important contributions came when the Wizards needed stability the most. As Orlando stormed back from a 26-point deficit, Washington looked shaky, rushed, and unsure. That’s when McCollum stepped in—not with loud celebrations, but with quiet control.

Much like a seasoned driver taking the wheel during a storm, McCollum slowed the pace, trusted his spots, and reminded his teammates how winning basketball is played.

According to NBA.com, McCollum has built his career on late-game confidence, and Tuesday night was another chapter in that story.

A Fast Start That Nearly Slipped Away

The Wizards looked unstoppable early.

After Justin Champagnie drilled a three-pointer late in the third quarter, Washington held an 89–63 lead. The crowd buzzed, the bench celebrated, and for a moment, it felt like the game was already decided.

However, basketball has a way of humbling young teams.

The Orlando Magic, known for their athleticism and defensive energy, refused to fold. They chipped away at the lead, forcing turnovers and pushing the pace. By the end of the third quarter, the deficit was trimmed to 14 points, and suddenly the mood inside the arena shifted.

Fourth-Quarter Pressure Tests the Wizards’ Growth

As the fourth quarter began, Washington’s inexperience showed. The Wizards opened the period 2-of-10 from the field, while Orlando attacked the rim with urgency.

When Goga Bitadze finished a layup to make it 107–105, the Magic were just two points away from completing what would have been the largest comeback in franchise history, as noted on Basketball-Reference.

You could feel the tension.

This is usually the moment when rebuilding teams collapse. But this time, the Wizards responded differently.

The Moment That Changed Everything

With momentum slipping away, CJ McCollum delivered a play that didn’t even show up fully in the box score—but meant everything.

He drove into the lane, drew the defense, and tossed a perfectly timed alley-oop to Alex Sarr, igniting the crowd and steadying Washington’s nerves. Moments later, McCollum knocked down a smooth midrange jumper, followed by a confident three-pointer.

Just like that, the Wizards were back in control.

Another McCollum three made it 117–107 with under two minutes remaining, sealing the outcome and sending a clear message: Washington is learning how to finish.

Alex Sarr’s Rise Continues

While McCollum closed the game, Alex Sarr was outstanding throughout. The rookie big man poured in 23 points, showcasing touch, athleticism, and improving court awareness.

Fans who follow NBA Draft scouting reports have long believed in Sarr’s potential, but performances like this show he’s adjusting faster than expected.

His chemistry with McCollum is already noticeable—and that partnership could become a cornerstone for the Wizards’ future.

Wizards’ Recent Surge: A Team Finding Its Identity

Washington has now won five of its last seven games, improving to 7–5 since the dreadful opening stretch. While no one is calling them contenders yet, the improvement is undeniable.

According to NBA standings, the Wizards are playing more competitive basketball, especially against playoff-level opponents.

This stretch has given fans something priceless: belief.

Magic Fight Hard Despite Missing Key Starters

Credit must also go to the Orlando Magic, who showed resilience despite being shorthanded.

• Franz Wagner, their leading scorer, remains sidelined with a high ankle sprain

• Jalen Suggs is out after suffering an MCL contusion, as confirmed by coach Jamahl Mosley via ESPN

Even so, Orlando entered the game leading the Southeast Division and sitting sixth in the Eastern Conference.

Jase Richardson led the Magic with 20 points off the bench, while Desmond Bane added 15, keeping Orlando competitive until the final minutes.

Step-by-Step: How the Wizards Closed the Game

For fans and young players watching closely, this game offered a simple but powerful lesson in winning basketball:

1. Slow the tempo when momentum shifts

2. Trust veteran leadership in crunch time

3. Attack smart shots, not rushed ones

4. Execute defensively after scoring

5. Stay composed, even when the lead disappears

These are small habits—but they define successful teams.

Why This Game Matters More Than One Win

This wasn’t just another regular-season victory.

It was proof that the Washington Wizards are evolving. They didn’t panic. They didn’t fold. They leaned on experience and trusted their growth.

For fans considering whether it’s worth investing time—or money—into watching this team, nights like this answer the question clearly.

Why You Should Watch the Wizards More Closely

If you’re debating whether to follow Washington more seriously, this is the moment to jump in.

With rising stars like Alex Sarr, proven closers like CJ McCollum, and competitive basketball becoming the norm, watching the Wizards now feels rewarding.

Subscribing to NBA League Pass lets you follow every step of this journey—live games, full replays, and behind-the-scenes access. For true basketball fans, it’s the most confident way to stay connected to the league’s next wave of contenders.

What’s Next

• Magic: Visit the Brooklyn Nets next

• Wizards: Travel to face the Philadelphia 76ers

Both teams move forward, but Washington does so with renewed confidence—and a locker room that knows it can handle pressure.

Final Word | SportInsiderly

Games like this define seasons. CJ McCollum’s fourth-quarter takeover didn’t just secure a win—it taught a young team how to believe in itself.

And for fans watching closely, it felt like the beginning of something bigger.

Stay tuned with SportInsiderly for more in-depth NBA coverage, insights, and stories that go beyond the box score.