There was no denying the talent of Tracy McGrady. Nicknamed “T-Mac”, the 6’8” small forward had an immense skill set along with the height that made him a 1997 NBA lottery pick out of high school. The Bartow, FL product, however, saw his career gain little traction in the first few years as a Toronto Raptor. Playing on a team with Vince Carter, McGrady wasn’t the top star on the team. He showed flashes but it wasn’t until he signed with the Orlando Magic in 2000 that he fully blossomed. Now on a team as the main focus, McGrady showed the NBA and the fans his true potential in 2002-03.
Tracy McGrady, Magic Make Playoffs
The addition of McGrady two years prior laid the foundation for the Magic to become relevant again and it was working. In those two years they’ve made the playoffs twice. In 2002-03, the Magic had a 42-40 record, finishing 4th in the Eastern Conference and clinching a third consecutive playoff spot. T-Mac was a big reason for the Magic’s playoff push. He averaged 32.1 ppg, highest in team history and in the league that year. He earned 1st Team All-NBA honors and was an All-Star starter.
The Magic faced off against the Detroit Pistons in the first round. Although McGrady and Co. got up to a 3-1 lead, the Pistons would storm back and win the series in seven.
Tracy McGrady Season Scoring Leader
McGrady was a monster all season. He unleashed the potential he showed in Toronto and put the basketball world on notice. He had 51 games in which he scored over 30 points. He topped 50 once, in a win against the Chicago Bulls. T-Mac did more than just score. He had 19 double-doubles and one triple-double (46 pts, 13 ast, 10 rebs against the New Jersey Nets). His sensational season catapulted him into superstardom and onto a Hall of Fame career.